Department News
Gift Launches Center for Early Onset Bipolar Disorder

A major thrust of the Institute for Juvenile Research (IJR) is to integrate research, clinical service and training on the major mental illnesses and most prevalent disorders affecting children. For example, the Center On Early Onset Bipolar Disorder within the IJR represents a cutting-edge approach to detecting and treating early signs of the disorder, before brain chemistry changes dramatically.

The new center will help bridge research and practices regarding etiology, treatment and prevention of this serious problem. In recognition of a generous $2.1 million gift to the Department, the center will be named the "Douglas P. and Margaret R. Colbeth Center on Early Onset Bipolar Disorder." It will be closely tied to the Pediatric Mood Disorders Clinic directed by Mani Pavuluri, MD. The clinic provides assessment and pharmacological and behavioral treatment for children with bipolar disorder and depression.

The Colbeth Center is the first to focus specifically on preventing major mental illness in children. Within IJR's vibrant realm of research and practice, the Colbeth Center is in an excellent position to achieve major advances.