Do you experience extreme mood swings—from feeling on top of the world to deeply depressed? Are your energy levels unpredictable, affecting your work, relationships, and daily life? This bipolar disorder quiz can help you understand if your symptoms might indicate bipolar disorder and guide you toward getting professional help.
⚠️ Important Note
This quiz is a screening tool for educational purposes only. It cannot diagnose bipolar disorder. Only a qualified mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. If you're concerned about your mental health, please seek professional evaluation.
Understanding Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by significant mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These aren't just ordinary mood changes—they're intense episodes that can last days, weeks, or even months, significantly impacting your ability to function.
Approximately 2.8% of U.S. adults experience bipolar disorder each year, with nearly 83% of cases classified as severe. The condition typically emerges in late adolescence or early adulthood, though it can develop at any age.
Bipolar Disorder Screening Quiz
Answer the following questions honestly based on your experiences over the past few weeks or months. Keep track of how many questions you answer "yes" to.
Section 1: Manic or Hypomanic Symptoms
Have you experienced periods where you felt:
- 1. Unusually happy, energetic, or irritable for days at a time?
- 2. Like you needed much less sleep than usual without feeling tired?
- 3. More talkative than usual, or felt pressure to keep talking?
- 4. Like your thoughts were racing or jumping from one idea to another?
- 5. Easily distracted or unable to focus on one thing?
- 6. Unusually confident or like you could accomplish anything?
- 7. More impulsive than usual (spending sprees, risky decisions, sexual behavior)?
- 8. So energized that you took on many new projects at once?
- 9. More productive or goal-oriented than normal, with increased activity?
- 10. Agitated, restless, or unable to sit still?
Section 2: Depressive Symptoms
Have you experienced periods where you felt:
- 11. Very sad, empty, or hopeless for extended periods?
- 12. A loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed?
- 13. Significant changes in appetite or weight (increase or decrease)?
- 14. Sleeping too much or unable to sleep?
- 15. Physically slowed down or restless and unable to sit still?
- 16. Extremely tired or lacking energy nearly every day?
- 17. Worthless or excessively guilty about things?
- 18. Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or thinking clearly?
- 19. Recurring thoughts of death or suicide?
Section 3: Impact and Pattern
Consider these additional factors:
- 20. Have these mood changes caused problems in your work, relationships, or daily life?
- 21. Have you noticed a pattern of mood swings—periods of high energy followed by low energy?
- 22. Do these episodes last for days or weeks at a time?
- 23. Have others noticed or commented on your mood changes?
- 24. Does anyone in your family have bipolar disorder or another mood disorder?
Understanding Your Results
While there's no scoring system that can definitively diagnose bipolar disorder, here's what your responses might indicate:
If You Answered "Yes" to 5+ Questions in Section 1 AND 5+ in Section 2
You may be experiencing symptoms consistent with bipolar disorder. These patterns of both elevated and depressed moods, especially if they've caused significant life disruption, warrant professional evaluation.
If You Answered "Yes" to 3-4 Questions in Either Section
You may be experiencing mood symptoms that could benefit from professional assessment. Even if not bipolar disorder, these symptoms could indicate depression, anxiety, or another treatable condition.
If You Answered "Yes" to Question 19 (Thoughts of Death or Suicide)
Please seek help immediately. Call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), contact your doctor, or go to the nearest emergency room. You don't have to face this alone.
Different Types of Bipolar Disorder
It's important to understand that bipolar disorder isn't one-size-fits-all. There are several types:
Bipolar I Disorder
Involves full manic episodes lasting at least 7 days (or requiring hospitalization) and usually depressive episodes lasting at least 2 weeks. Most people with Bipolar I experience both types of episodes.
Bipolar II Disorder
Characterized by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes—but not the full-blown manic episodes seen in Bipolar I. Don't let the "II" fool you; this isn't a milder condition. The depressive episodes are often severe and long-lasting.
Cyclothymic Disorder
Involves numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents), though the symptoms don't meet the criteria for hypomanic or depressive episodes.
Why Professional Diagnosis Matters
Bipolar disorder is often misdiagnosed because:
- Overlapping symptoms: Many conditions share symptoms with bipolar disorder, including major depression, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, and anxiety disorders
- Recall bias: People often seek help during depressive episodes and may not report past manic or hypomanic symptoms
- Substance use: Drug or alcohol use can mimic or mask bipolar symptoms
- Medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, neurological conditions, and other medical issues can cause mood symptoms
At Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn, Dr. Aneel Ursani and our clinical team conduct comprehensive evaluations that include:
- Detailed psychiatric history and symptom assessment
- Family history of mental health conditions
- Medical examination to rule out physical causes
- Mood tracking and pattern analysis
- Screening for co-occurring conditions
What Happens After Diagnosis?
A bipolar diagnosis isn't the end—it's the beginning of effective treatment. With proper care, most people with bipolar disorder can achieve significant mood stabilization and lead fulfilling lives.
Treatment Typically Includes:
- Medication management: Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and sometimes antidepressants
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family-focused therapy, and psychoeducation
- Lifestyle modifications: Regular sleep schedule, stress management, exercise, and avoiding alcohol and drugs
- Support systems: Building a network of family, friends, and support groups
- Regular monitoring: Ongoing appointments to adjust treatment as needed
Common Questions About Bipolar Disorder
Can bipolar disorder develop suddenly?
While symptoms typically emerge gradually in late adolescence or early adulthood, some people experience a sudden onset, particularly after a significant stressor or life event.
Will I need medication forever?
Bipolar disorder is typically a lifelong condition requiring ongoing management. Many people need to stay on medication long-term to prevent mood episodes, though specific treatment plans vary by individual.
Can stress cause bipolar disorder?
Stress doesn't cause bipolar disorder, but it can trigger symptoms in people who are genetically predisposed. Major life changes, sleep disruption, and substance use can also trigger episodes.
Is bipolar disorder the same as mood swings?
No. Everyone experiences mood changes, but bipolar mood episodes are more intense, last longer, and significantly interfere with daily functioning. They're distinct clinical episodes, not just bad days.
Get a Professional Evaluation
If this quiz raised concerns about bipolar disorder or other mood symptoms, Next Step Psychiatry can help. We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized treatment plans for residents of Lilburn, Gwinnett County, and throughout Metro Atlanta.
Dr. Aneel Ursani specializes in mood disorders and provides compassionate, evidence-based care. Both in-person and telehealth appointments are available.
Schedule your evaluation or call: 678-437-1659
4145 Lawrenceville Hwy STE 100, Lilburn, GA 30047
Taking the Next Step
Recognizing that you might have bipolar disorder takes courage. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, early intervention can make a significant difference in your long-term outcomes. Bipolar disorder is highly treatable, and many people with the condition live full, successful lives.
Don't let uncertainty or stigma prevent you from seeking help. If you're experiencing mood swings that disrupt your life, relationships, or work, professional evaluation is the right next step. Our team at Next Step Psychiatry in Lilburn is here to provide the support and treatment you need.
For more information about bipolar disorder, read our comprehensive guide on understanding bipolar disorder, or explore our psychiatric services.
Disclaimer: This quiz is a screening tool for educational purposes only and cannot diagnose bipolar disorder. Only a qualified mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. If you're in crisis, call 911, call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), or go to the nearest emergency room.