Unfortunately, diagnosing bipolar disorder is nowhere near this straightforward.
While there are some promising breakthroughs on the horizon, there is currently no definitive medical test for this disorder. Furthermore, there are a number of physical conditions and quite a few psychiatric disorders which present symptoms that can be confused with those of bipolar disorder. And just to complicate things a bit more, a great many psychiatric disorders can occur in tandem.
Therefore, to reach a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, a psychiatrist will usually conduct the following:
- A complete medical history and physical exam
These are conducted in order to rule out other physical conditions.
Ruling Out Other Physical Conditions
- A complete psychiatric history
As previously noted, the possibility of other mental disorders should be considered. Furthermore, bipolar disorder is characterized by mood swings that tend to cycle. In reviewing a patient's history, previous mood swings (perhaps of less severity or duration) may come to light.
Ruling Out Other Psychiatric Conditions
- A family history of medical and psychiatric concerns
Current research indicates that mood disorders have genetic underpinnings - they tend to run in families. Therefore, if there is a family history of depression or bipolar disorder, it is a good indication that this is the case for the current patient as well.
- An evaluation of current symptoms
There are a number of symptoms that are common for manic and depressive episodes:
How to Recognize a Manic Episode
How to Recognize a Depressive Episode