Bipolar disorder is diagnosed by a mental health professional through a detailed assessment of your symptoms and history. There are no blood tests or scans for bipolar disorder. 

The diagnosis process 

Bipolar disorder is identified through a clinical evaluation. This means a doctor, usually a psychiatrist or mental health specialist, will talk with you about your experiences and how they affect your life. 

What to expect 

Discussion of mood changes: You’ll be asked about episodes of mania (highs) and depression (lows), and how these have impacted your daily life, work, and relationships. 

Review of symptom history: The professional will look at how long you’ve had symptoms and whether you have periods of feeling well in between. 

No medical tests: There are no blood tests or brain scans that can confirm bipolar disorder. Diagnosis relies on your experiences and the information you share. 

Possible misdiagnosis: Sometimes, people are first diagnosed with depression before bipolar disorder is recognised, as the symptoms can be similar at first. 

Why a proper assessment matters 

If you think you may have bipolar disorder, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare professional. A clear diagnosis means you can get the right support and treatment.