THE BIPOLAR SPECTRUM DIAGNOSTIC SCALE (BSDS) |

Passage

This describes me

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 stayin 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

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.

Your initials

Date of birth

THE BIPOLAR SPECTRUM DIAGNOSTIC SCALE (BSDS)

The Bipolar Spectrum Diagnostic Scale (BSDS)