Challenges and Opportunities in Using Cognitive Screeners for Adolescents and Young Adults With Bipolar Disorder

Adolescents and young adults with bipolar disorder often experience cognitive deficits that hinder academic performance and social interactions, affecting long-term outcomes. Identifying cognitive impairments is crucial for improving clinical management of bipolar disorder. Use of cognitive screeners is recommended to identify cognitive difficulties and for ongoing assessment. Although cognitive screeners are effective with adults, their use with adolescents and young adults is limited. This project assessed clinicians' attitudes and practices regarding cognitive screening of adolescents and young adults with bipolar disorder. The National Network of Depression Centers (NNDC) Child and Adolescent Mood Disorders Task Group developed a survey for clinicians treating adolescents and young adults (ages 14-25) with bipolar disorder, evaluating their knowledge of and attitudes toward cognitive screening and barriers to implementation. A total of 163 clinicians across 23 NNDC sites completed the survey. Most recognized the impact of cognitive deficits on functioning (87%) and treatment response (76%). More than 90% reported that cognitive assessments would be beneficial; however, 78% were unaware of available tools, and 64% reported barriers to implementation. Findings highlight a need for clinician education and addressing barriers to implementation. This article outlines the importance of using screeners in treatment of adolescents and young adults with bipolar disorder and provides practical information for using screeners and recommendations for implementation.