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Mood Disorder Questionnaire: A validated screening tool for bipolar spectrum disorders
Instructions: Have there ever been periods of time when you were not your usual self and...
1. Felt so good or so hyper that other people thought you were not your normal self, or you were so hyper that you got into trouble?
2. Were so irritable that you shouted at people or started fights or arguments?
3. Felt much more self-confident than usual?
4. Got much less sleep than usual and found you didn't really miss it?
5. Were much more talkative or spoke much faster than usual?
6. Thoughts raced through your head or you couldn't slow your mind down?
7. Were so easily distracted by things around you that you had trouble concentrating or staying on track?
8. Had much more energy than usual?
9. Were much more active or did many more things than usual?
10. Were much more social or outgoing than usual; for example, you telephoned friends in the middle of the night?
11. Were much more interested in sex than usual?
12. Did things that were unusual for you or that other people might have thought were excessive, foolish, or risky?
13. Spending money got you or your family into trouble?
Manic episodes lasting 7+ days, often with depression
Hypomanic episodes + major depressive episodes
Chronic fluctuating mood, less severe
| Feature | Mania | Hypomania |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 7+ days (or hospitalization) | 4+ days |
| Severity | Severe impairment | Noticeable but less severe |
| Psychosis | May occur | Does not occur |
| Hospitalization | Often needed | Rarely needed |
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
No. The MDQ is a screening tool. A positive screen means further evaluation is warranted. Diagnosis requires comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional.
People often seek help during depressive episodes and may not recognize or report manic/hypomanic symptoms. It is frequently misdiagnosed as unipolar depression.
Yes. With proper treatment (medication, therapy, lifestyle management), many people with bipolar disorder lead full, productive lives. Early treatment improves outcomes.
Sleep disruption is both a symptom and trigger. Maintaining regular sleep patterns is one of the most important lifestyle factors for mood stability.
Antidepressants can trigger mania in some people with bipolar disorder. They should only be used with a mood stabilizer and under careful supervision.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or thoughts of self-harm: