Chapter Three: Evaluation and Diagnosis

• How is bipolar disorder diagnosed?

• What are mania and hypomania?

• What are depression and mixed episodes?

• What are the categories of bipolar?

• What constitutes a thorough evaluation?

• Can I prevent misdiagnosis?  (Click Here for the Answer)

• Can the illness be treated?

• Can other illnesses mimic bipolar?

• Will my child be stigmatized?

• Can my child be treated without a diagnosis?

• Should all family members be evaluated?

• Can children have co-occurring conditions?

• How do additional conditions complicate things?

• How can I pay for medical bills?

• What if the medical experts disagree?

• When should I tell my child about the diagnosis?

• Should I tell other people about the diagnosis?