One of the two most popular pages on my website is the page that includes a screening test for bipolar disorder. In fact, over 8,000 people visited that page last year. Searches for a bipolar test are more than double the searches for depression tests, yet the incidence of depression (5.3%) is far greater than bipolar (1-2%).

Bipolar disorder is only diagnosed on average 8–10 years after the onset of symptoms, which is regarded as outrageous by sufferer groups. There are many reasons for this, some of which are being addressed. There are some great tips for doctors to help identify bipolar disorder earlier on the website of Australia’s Black Dog Institute.

Unlike diabetes or pneumonia, bipolar disorder cannot be diagnosed by a laboratory test. Bipolar disorder is diagnosed in the old-fashioned, ‘clinical’ way – by a doctor taking a history and doing an examination of the patient’s mental state. This might need to be carried out over a number of consultations.

When the doctor has collected sufficient information, he or she will carry out the ultimate bipolar test by comparing their findings with the DSM-IV criteria for the condition suspected. If those criteria are met, the diagnosis is made. Sometimes a provisional (working) diagnosis is made if one or more of the criteria are not clear-cut.

Once a diagnosis is made, a rational treatment plan can be put in place. But who wants to wait 8 to 10 years? Bipolar disorder can wreak a lot of havoc in that amount of time.

So perhaps the large number of people searching for online tests for bipolar disorder reflects their frustration in not being diagnosed, not being able to get on with their lives.

If you’re one of those searchers, here are some tips to help you get the right treatment for the right condition – soon!

1. Do a couple of tests on the same day. Repeat them a month later and compare the results. The Mood Disorders Questionnaire developed by Hirschfeld and colleagues covers the whole bipolar spectrum and will give a good indication that something is amiss but will not provide a diagnosis. The Black Dog Institute has recently published a Bipolar Self-Assessment Test which is a little different from Hirschfeld’s, and would be a good comparison.

2. Look up symptoms of bipolar disorder and cross-reference these with your test results.

3. Choose a doctor with an interest in mental health or one who has done special training in mental health.

4. Choose a doctor who you get on with well, and / or a new doctor who you have heard is good at listening. Avoid the ‘dithering doc’ – you want answers soon!

5. Before you go, write down a list of your difficulties/symptoms in the past. Print out your online tests and show the doctor.

6. If you think you will have trouble getting your view across or that you will forget key items, ask a friend or your partner to accompany you.

7. Ask the doctor to tell you what he/she thinks is wrong with you.

8. Ask the doctor to start you on treatment immediately, even if he/she wants a second opinion.

9. If you are asked to see a psychiatrist, do so. All doctors work best when the patient is involved, interested and co-operative.

10. If you get nowhere, go back to step 3 and repeat. If you stick at it, it can’t possibly take 8-10 years to get a diagnosis!

11. Finally, prepare yourself for the answer. Be determined to continue your life, going for your goals, even if you are diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Remember, bipolar only beats you if you let it. Good luck in that test!