Bipolar Tests

Bipolar disorder is a serious issue. Many people who suspect they have the disorder will take bipolar tests before seeing a doctor who will confirm the results of the bipolar tests. 

    The disorder can be difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can mimic depression or ADHD, depending on the length of the cycles of these emotions. In some cases, it can take years before bipolar tests reveal the accurate diagnosis.

Why Bipolar Tests are Important

In many cases, patients fail to take bipolar tests because they do not want to hear the bad news. Bipolar disorder is not something that can be cured, rather it must be endured. The good news is that people do learn to manage this disorder and live normal lives. However bipolar tests are the first step down the path to a healthier life.

Taking Bipolar Tests

While you can find bipolar tests online, you must also take bipolar tests with a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.  Bipolar test consists of a series of questions aimed at determining the origin of your disorder, its cycles, family background, personal history, overall mental health and medical history. The doctor may order laboratory tests in addition to bipolar tests.

Bipolar Test Scoring System

The most commonly used bipolar test is that Goldberg Bipolar Screening Quiz, created by Dr Ivan Goldberg, MD. This bipolar test consists of 12 questions about your moods and behaviors and asks you to indicate how much these symptoms apply to you. When answering questions in bipolar tests, you should answer how you usually feel, especially if there have been recent changes in your emotions and reactions. The most accurate bipolar test results are provided for those who are at least 18 years old and have had at least one depressive episode.

Bipolar Test Answers

An example question on bipolar tests would be, “At times I am much more talkative or speak much faster than usual.” You may have answer the bipolar test questions with Not at All, Just a Little, Somewhat, Moderately, Quite a Lot, or Very Much. Each answer in the bipolar test is assigned a point value and the total score determines the likelihood of you having bipolar disorder. Each answer in the bipolar test is assigned a value (Not at All, 0 points; Just a Little, 1 point; Somewhat, 2 points; Moderately, 3 points; Quite a Lot, 4 points; Very Much, 5 points).

The higher the score on the bipolar tests, the higher the likelihood that you have bipolar disorder. Do not forget that only a doctor can diagnose this disorder through a bipolar test and other methods. Also, if you are feeling depressed, it is vital you seek a physicians care in addition to bipolar tests. A score of 0 to 15 suggests you may be suffering from depression and not panic disorder. Scores ranging from 16-24 suggest you may have major depression or some level of bipolar disorder. Scores above 25 make it likely you have bipolar disorder. Bipolar tests are the first step to screening for the disorder.  To take the Goldberg Bipolar test click here.   Since Bipolar can mimic other conditions its important to get an accurate assessment, go to our Bipolar Diagnosis page to learn more!