1. Take a Test
Tests for bipolar disorder will help determine exactly which kind you have. There are two types--type I and type II. If you're experiencing mania, psychosis, hypomania or depression, you very likely have type I. Type II is usually characterized by frequent hypomanic episodes, meaning your mood keeps going up or down, but you still have your judgment. You're also depressed.
2. Be Moody
A bipolar test examines your mood to see if it fits in with bipolar disorder. Many people with bipolar disorder are manic. You may get upset, irritable or extremely happy with the drop of a hat. Another sign is engaging in high-risk or dangerous behaviors that hurt you or someone else. If you exhibit these signs, use drugs, act violently, engage in inappropriate sexual activity and/or spend money uncontrollably, you may have bipolar disorder. These are all red flags. Bipolar disorder disrupts family and work life.
3. Past Points the Way
It's not easy to diagnose bipolar disorder because the symptoms are episodic. Even though it's a psychological illness, your doctor needs to go through your medical history and examine you physically to rule out any other cause for your behavior. Be prepared to tell your doctor all about the symptoms you're having now and those from the past. Doctors will look for telltale signs of depression, such as decreased energy and activity. You may also talk slower or softer or experience delusions and hallucinations. Pessimism is normal, as is attempted suicide and a high level of frustration. On the other hand, if you're manic, another sign of bipolar disorder, you're extremely excited or hyperactive. You talk louder and faster and have trouble concentrating.
4. Perhaps it's Physical
Your doctor will make sure to rule out any physical reason for your behavior. You may have mood swings because you injured your head, because you have a disease like AIDS or lupus or because you're having a vitamin deficiency. There are a number of possible explanations, so your doctors needs to run through them all. Medications used for anxiety, depression and Parkinson's can also cause some of the same mood changes.
5. Put Yourself to the Test
In this high-tech age, why not just use the Internet to determine if you have bipolar disorder? Well, you can. The test is anonymous and doesn't even require an email address. It asks you about your sleep patterns, your self confidence, concentration and racing thoughts. Questions will mainly focus on two things, mania and depression. For example, you're asked if you feel powerful, mad, restless, forgetful, if you eat much and if you like yourself. It's important to note that any bipolar test that you administer yourself can miss cases of the disorder. It won't be as accurate as tests your doctor performs.
