Mental health assessment
A physician may refer a patient to a specialist in mental health, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. Mental health specialists diagnose bipolar disorder by assessing a patient’s mental health and searching for bipolar disorder symptoms. A psychiatrist asks patients a series of questions regarding their behavioral symptoms, such as how they interfere with their daily activities and how long they last. A specialist in mental health will also inquire about risk factors for bipolar disorder, such as a history of substance misuse and family medical history. At least one manic and one depressive episode are required for the diagnosis of bipolar disorder, as the disorder manifests both of these extreme mood phases. The mental health specialist may inquire about the individual’s feelings and thoughts following and during manic or depressive episodes. The specialist requires information regarding how in control you feel and how long the frenzied phase lasts. Additionally, the specialists question the individual’s friends and family to confirm the behavioral symptoms of bipolar disorder. Any diagnosis requires consideration of the patient’s current medications and medical history.
