How do I get a bipolar disorder diagnosis? The only way is from a licensed health care professional who understands the symptoms of the illness, especially mania. A psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner are good first choices. The diagnosis is easy if the health care professional knows what they are looking for.
Is it bipolar? Am I Bipolar? Good questions. Moods are not bipolar disorder- nor are relationship or work troubles necessarily a sign of bipolar disorder. The absolutely only way you can have bipolar disorder is if you have had mania. Find a good mania quiz online and see what you find. Then make an appointment with a health care professional and get a real diagnosis.
Remember, without mania, there is no bipolar disorder so check there first.
What is bipolar syndrome? Bipolar syndrome is just another name for bipolar disorder. The illness was originally called manic depression- then bipolar disorder started in the 80s. People now say bipolar illness and bi-polar disorder. Bipolar syndrome is not used very often in the states. Other countries have different ways of talking about the illness. For example, England may say bipolar affective disorder. But it all means the same thing!
Julie
i am starting a bipolar support group, ,mostly men and i was looking for a idea for a poster and really liked the maintenance mechanic and wondered if I could use it with your permission ?????? many thanks julie