When assessing a person with bipolar disorder, or when making a diagnosis, it is important to take a full history from the patient.1 This patient history should include a discussion of the type of first episode and predominant polarity of illness so far, the duration and severity of episodes, the nature of the inter‑episodic recovery, whether there has been seasonal variation in the onset of symptoms, or the presence of rapid cycling and ultra‑rapid cycling features, and whether there is any suicidal behaviour, any violence, or any agitation.1 Along with a patient history, a physical examination is important, as is a discussion of treatment history, and an assessment of the caregiver(s), including their knowledge of the disease and their attitudes to treatment.1
References:
1. Shah N, Grover S, Rao GP. Clinical practice guidelines for management of bipolar disorder. Indian J Psychiatry 2017; 59 (Suppl 1): S51–S66.
2. Altinbaş K. Treatment of comorbid psychiatric disorders with bipolar disorder. Noro Psikiyatr Ars 2021; 58 (Suppl 1): S41–S46.