How to Diagnose Bipolar

Bipolar is a mood disorder that affects millions of people in the United States. It is characterized by swings in mood from depression to mania. Bipolar disorder is generally diagnosed in early adulthood; however, in children, it is often misdiagnosed as ADHD because it shares many of the same characteristics. There are a few ways to ensure a proper diagnosis of bipolar disorder so patients can be better able to maintain control over the condition.

Instructions

• 1

  Notice mood. Bipolar people suffer severe mood swings that range from extreme highs to periods of intense lows. These polarized moods are referred to as mania and depression. During the manic state, bipolar people display hyper-sexuality, grandiose thoughts, elevated mood, euphoria, elevated self-esteem, spending sprees, lack of concentration, risky behavior and a decreased need for sleep.

  During depressed periods bipolar people are very irritable, and they experience feelings of anxiety and guilt. Depressive periods also include intense sadness, suicidal thoughts, fatigue, hopelessness and changes in appetite.

• 2

  Learn your family's mental health history. Most people who suffer from bipolar disorder have relatives who have been diagnosed with the condition. Ask your relatives if anyone has suffered from the condition in your family if you begin noticing these mood swings.

• 3

  Seek treatment. It is important to seek treatment for bipolar disorder as soon as possible. Once the extreme mood swings are noticed or if you are having suicidal thoughts, consult your health care professional immediately. An experienced health care professional can educate you about bipolar disorder and provide coping techniques and treatment.

  If you notice a relative or friend with these symptoms, have a discussion with him about his behavior and recommend that he seek treatment.

• 4

  Cooperate during diagnosis. During the evaluation process, mental health professionals run a series of psychological and laboratory tests as well as routine physical exams. These tests are important because they will help the health care professional make the correct diagnosis.

  During physical testing, your vital signs, weight and overall health will be evaluated and laboratory tests will check blood and urine samples; and thyroid functioning.

  The psychological evaluation will be the most extensive of the clinical testing. Psychological evaluations include talking about your feelings and thoughts, as well as filling out surveys and questionnaires. During the psychological evaluation, patients should be open and forthright about their behaviors so the type of bipolar disorder can be determined. Furthermore, the health care professional may request to talk to the patient's friends and relatives about the patient's behavior for a better understanding of the problem.

  If the mental health professional determines that the patient's behavior meets the criteria of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the patient will be diagnosed with bipolar disorder.