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depression > Depression Topics

Bipolar Disorder

Manic Depression ยท Bipolar Affective Disorder

Making the Diagnosis

A doctor will diagnose bipolar disorder based on a pattern of symptoms. Diagnosis usually involves a thorough medical history, questions about family history, a physical exam, and a psychiatric evaluation that assesses the history of depression and mania episodes.

Early and proper diagnosis is an important step towards preventing other complications such as suicide; alcohol or substance abuse; marital or work problems; and more frequent cycling episodes.


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