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The Bipolar Spectrum Diagnostic Scale (BSDS) was developed by Ronald Pies, MD and was later refined and tested by S. Nassir Ghaemi, MD, MPH and colleagues.
The Bipolar Spectrum Diagnostic Scale (BSDS)
Instructions:
Please read through the entire passage below before filling in any blanks.
Some individuals notice that their mood and/or energy levels shift drastically from time to time______.
These individuals notice that, at times, their mood and/or energy level is very low, and at other times, very high______.
During their ''low'' phases, these individuals often feel a lack of energy; a need to stay in bed or get extra sleep; and little or no motivation to do things they need to do______.
They often put on weight during these periods______.
During their low phases, these individuals often feel ''blue'', sad all the time, or depressed______.
Sometimes, during these low phases, they feel hopeless or even suicidal______.
Their ability to function at work or socially is impaired______.
Typically, these low phases last for a few weeks, but sometimes they last only a few days______.
Individuals with this type of pattern may experience a period of ''normal'' mood in between mood swings, during which their mood and energy level feels ''right'' and their ability to function is not disturbed______.
They may then notice a marked shift or ''switch'' in the way they feel______.
Their energy increases above what is normal for them, and they often get many things done they would not ordinarily be able to do______.
Sometimes, during these ''high'' periods, these individuals feel as if they have too much energy or feel ''hyper''______.
Some individuals, during these high periods, may feel irritable, ''on edge'', or aggressive______.
Some individuals, during these high periods, take on too many activities at once______.
Scoring Instructions
The BSDS scoring ranges from 0 to 25 points.
Total score range likelihood of bipolar disorder
0 - 6 Highly unlikely
7 - 12 Low probability
13 - 19 Moderate probability
20 - 25 High probability |
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 During these high periods, some individuals may spend money in ways that cause them trouble______.
They may be more talkative, outgoing, or sexual during these periods______.
Sometimes, their behavior during these high periods seems strange or annoying to others______.
Sometimes, these individuals get into difficulty with co-workers or the police, during these high periods______.
Sometimes, they increase their alcohol or non-prescription drug use during these high periods______.
Now that you have read this passage, please check one of the following four boxes:
□ This story fits me very well, or almost perfectly
□ This story fits me fairly well
□ This story fits me to some degree, but not in most respects
□ This story does not really describe me at all
Now please go back and put a check after each sentence that definitely describes you.
Scoring: each sentence checked is worth one point. Add 6 points for ‘‘fits me very well,’’ 4 points for ‘‘fits me fairly well,’’ and 2 points for ‘‘fits me to some degree.’’
Total Score = _________
See Scoring Instructions
Important Note:
These screenings are not designed to make a diagnosis or take the place
of a professional consultation, but can alert you to mental health concerns
that may indicate the need for an evaluation by a psychiatrist.
Related articles
Online mental health screening
Keeping a mood chart
Understand depression
Understanding anxiety disorders
Understanding bipolar disorder
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Page updated December 1, 2010 |
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