How do you get a bipolar referral?

You can only be diagnosed with bipolar disorder by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist – not by your GP. However, if you’re experiencing bipolar moods and symptoms, discussing it with your GP can be a good first step. They can refer you to a psychiatrist, who will be able to assess you.

Who can diagnose you with bipolar disorder?

A psychiatrist or other mental health professional diagnoses bipolar disorder based on the symptoms, lifetime course, and experiences of the individual. Some people have bipolar disorder for years before it is diagnosed.

Who should a bipolar person see?

There are many medications for treating bipolar disorder, so a psychiatrist, who is best qualified to identify which drugs work best for a specific patient, should oversee treatment. A psychiatrist is a type of medical doctor (MD or DO) with specialized training in mental health care.

How can you help someone who is bipolar?

How can I help someone with bipolar disorder?

1. Educate yourself. The more you know about bipolar disorder, the more you’ll be able to help.
2. Listen.
3. Be a champion.
4. Be active in their treatment.
5. Make a plan.
6. Support, don’t push.
7. Be understanding.
8. Don’t neglect yourself.

What can mimic bipolar disorder?

Some non-psychiatric illnesses, such as thyroid disease, lupus, HIV, syphilis, and other infections, may have signs and symptoms that mimic those of bipolar disorder. This can pose further challenges in making a diagnosis and determining the treatment.

How do doctors test you for bipolar?

There are no specific blood tests or brain scans to diagnose bipolar disorder. Even so, your doctor may perform a physical exam and order lab tests, including a thyroid function test and urine analyses. These tests can help determine if other conditions or factors could be causing your symptoms.

What kind of Doctor do you see for bipolar disorder?

If your GP thinks you may have bipolar disorder, they’ll usually refer you to a psychiatrist, a doctor who specialises in mental health problems. If your illness puts you at risk of harming yourself, your GP will arrange an appointment immediately.

What questions should I ask a psychiatrist about my bipolar disorder?

The psychiatrist will also ask about how you feel leading up to and during an episode of mania or depression, and if you have thoughts about harming yourself. The psychiatrist will also want to know about your medical background and family history, especially whether any of your relatives have had bipolar disorder.

How do hospitals treat bipolar disorder?

Getting psychiatric treatment at a hospital can help keep you calm and safe and stabilize your mood, whether you’re having a manic or major depressive episode. The primary treatments for bipolar disorder include medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy) to control symptoms, and also may include education and support groups.

How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

A psychiatrist or other mental health professional diagnoses bipolar disorder based on the symptoms, lifetime course, and experiences of the individual. Some people have bipolar disorder for years before it is diagnosed. This may be because: Bipolar disorder has symptoms in common with several other mental health disorders.