All of the information I will place on this page, is freely available on the internet. I have published it as I found it useful on my way to a diagnosis and to assure myself, and my family / friends.
The Bipolar Spectrum Diagnostic Scale
This scale was developed by Dr Ronald Pies and is included here with his permission. On average it can take an individual experiencing manic depression 10 years to get a correct diagnosis. This screening questionnaire was initially developed for use by clinicians, but has since also been used by many individuals as a starting point in their discussions with their health care providers. The intention is that its use will lead to an accurate diagnosis earlier than might otherwise be the case. The scale is applicable to the entire spectrum of bipolar disorders.
As with any assessment tool, it is not intended as a substitute for professional opinion and advice. If you suspect a bipolar disorder you should discuss this with your doctor.. Any family history of manic depression will be explored and your G.P or psychiatrist will undertake a thorough assessment.”
Download – Bipolar Diagnostic Scale
Bipolar Affective Disorder – MDF Handout
This is an excellent starter explanation for people who may believe they have bipolar and explains in simple terms, classic symptoms, what hypo-mania and mania is, depression and cycles. Alongside care teams, medication and talk therapies. A great place to start out.
The Secret Life of A Manic Depressive
This booklet accompanied the BBC series, in which Stephen Fry opened the possibility of acceptance of Manic Depression or Bipolar. It is a balanced leaflet, giving a few personal accounts, mingled in with light facts.
Download – Secret Life of Manic Depression
Bipolar Disorder Information For Friends & Family – MDF Handout
I found this factual and supportive booklet from MDF, to be useful to both myself and to those around me. Take a look, it’s quite nicely laid out and has a gentle approach to Bipolar.
Download – Bipolar Disorder Family & Friend Factsheet
I discovered your website after searching for a mood tracker, and I just wanted to introduce myself. I’m turning the big 3-0 this year and I’ve begun to take stock of the things that I’ve accomplished. The only problem is that bipolar keeps illuminating all the things that I haven’t done. I just opened a blogger account. On the one hand, I would like to be able to purge the overflow in a manner that won’t poison my relationships or have to sit face-to-face with someone I barely know. But on the other, I fear what others may think of me or worse yet…that they may not care at all. Being able to relate to the things that you’ve written and being reminded by the AWESOME layout, artwork, and raw nature of the site reminds me that bipolar is equal parts friend and foe for life. It’s encouraging to see that it doesn’t appear to have impeded your creativity or your candor. I’ll make it a point to check out the links that you’ve provided (thanx for them!) and to keep up with your kickass commentary. I’m in Florida and I’ve been looking for a local support group with little success. Guess I’ll have to start one of my own! I think I’ll keep it small and start with the blog….
lata!