Supporting Your Child With Bipolar Disorder

Where You Are | S6 E6 | May 21, 2025

Bipolar disorder is a mental health disorder that can have a big impact on children, youth, and families. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Roberto Sassi (Psychiatrist-in-Chief at BC Children’s and Women’s Hospitals) to discuss:

what bipolar disorder is and how it's diagnosed
what treatment and support can look like
common questions about bipolar disorder from BC parents and caregivers

Note: The topic of suicide is discussed in this episode. For some of us, this might feel challenging or heavy. As you listen to this episode, please take stock of how you're feeling. If you need to take a break from listening, come back a little later, or reach out to your supports, please do so.

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Episode Resources

Kelty website: Bipolar Disorder
Website: Canadian Mental Health Association
Website: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Website: American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Guest Bios

Dr. Roberto Sassi

Psychiatrist-in-Chief, BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital

Dr. Roberto Sassi is a child and adolescent psychiatrist who joined BC Children’s Hospital & BC Women’s Hospital in 2021 as Psychiatrist-in-Chief and is Head of the Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of British Columbia. He is an Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, UBC, and is the inaugural chair holder of the Pediatric Mental Health Endowed Chair at BC Children’s Hospital.

Dr. Sassi received his training in medicine and psychiatry at the University of São Paulo, Brazil, and PhD in neuroimaging and bipolar disorders through the University of São Paulo and at the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic in Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Sassi also completed residency training in the US in general psychiatry and in child and adolescent psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital & McLean Hospital program, Harvard University.

Where You Are | S6 E6 | May 21, 2025