Free Bipolar Disorder Screening
Screen for bipolar disorder symptoms with this confidential mood assessment.
Bipolar Screening (MDQ)
Question 1 of 10
Based on the Mood Disorder Questionnaire, this screening identifies potential bipolar symptoms.
Has there ever been a period of time when you were not your usual self and you felt so good or hyper that others thought you were not your normal self?
Understanding
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder characterised by episodes of abnormally elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and episodes of depression. During manic episodes, people experience increased energy, reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsivity, and sometimes risky behaviour. Depressive episodes involve low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, and other depression symptoms.
Bipolar disorder affects approximately 1-2% of the UK population. There are several types: Bipolar I (with full manic episodes), Bipolar II (with hypomania and major depression), and Cyclothymia (milder but chronic mood swings). Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes.
Important: This is a screening tool based on the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), not a diagnostic test. Only a psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional can diagnose bipolar disorder. Accurate diagnosis requires a comprehensive assessment of mood history, symptoms, and functioning.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs of Manic or Hypomanic Episodes
Treatment
Treatment for Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is highly treatable with proper care. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and psychological therapy:
Medication Management
Mood stabilisers are the cornerstone of bipolar treatment, helping prevent both manic and depressive episodes. Our psychiatrists provide comprehensive medication management and monitoring.
Learn about psychiatry servicesPsychological Therapy
Therapy helps you recognise early warning signs, develop coping strategies, maintain stability, and process the impact of bipolar on your life. CBT and psychoeducation are particularly helpful.
Learn about bipolar therapyResources
Bipolar Disorder Resources
Your Score
Understanding Your Score
Your total score gives a quick estimate of severity. Higher scores suggest symptoms are more frequent and more likely to affect daily life, sleep, work, or relationships.
Your responses suggest a low likelihood of bipolar disorder symptoms.
Recommended next step: This screening suggests bipolar is unlikely
Your responses suggest some mood patterns that may warrant discussion with a professional.
Recommended next step: Consider speaking with a psychiatrist
Your responses suggest patterns consistent with mood episodes. Professional evaluation is recommended.
Recommended next step: We recommend speaking with a psychiatrist
Your responses strongly suggest mood patterns requiring professional evaluation.
Recommended next step: Please seek a psychiatric evaluation
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Bipolar Testing
Frequently Asked Questions About Bipolar Testing
Is this bipolar test clinically valid?
Yes. This page uses the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), a validated screening tool widely used in clinical and research settings to identify potential bipolar spectrum symptoms.
What does the MDQ measure?
It screens for periods of elevated or irritable mood along with associated symptoms like increased energy, reduced need for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive behaviour — the hallmark features of bipolar disorder.
Can this test diagnose bipolar disorder?
No. This is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Only a psychiatrist or qualified mental health professional can diagnose bipolar disorder through a comprehensive clinical assessment.
What score suggests I should get help?
A score in the elevated or significant range warrants professional evaluation. If you suspect bipolar symptoms, speaking with your GP or a psychiatrist is recommended.
What treatments work for bipolar disorder?
Bipolar is highly treatable. Treatment typically involves mood stabilising medication prescribed by a psychiatrist, alongside psychological therapy like CBT to recognise early warning signs and maintain stability.
Should I take the test again later?
Yes. Tracking mood patterns over time can help. Keeping a mood diary alongside repeat screenings gives useful information for a clinician.
Important
When to Seek Help
If your score is in the elevated or significant range, professional evaluation is strongly recommended. Bipolar disorder is best assessed by a psychiatrist.
If you experience severe mood swings, thoughts of self-harm, or behaviours that feel out of control, seek urgent help through your GP, NHS 111, or Samaritans on 116 123.
Expert Bipolar Disorder Treatment in London
Our psychiatrists and therapists provide comprehensive bipolar disorder assessment, medication management, and psychological support. With proper treatment, people with bipolar can lead stable, fulfilling lives.