Early Warning Signs Scale for Bipolar Disorder

This form can be used to track the frequency and intensity of certain behaviors and feelings over time. It’s important to note that this is not a diagnostic tool, but rather a way to recognize patterns that may warrant a discussion with a healthcare professional.

Bipolar Disorder Early Warning Sign Scale

For each item, rate the frequency and intensity over the past week on a scale from 0 to 4, where

  • 0 = Not at all
  • 1 = Rarely
  • 2 = Sometimes
  • 3 = Often
  • 4 = Very Often/Intensely

    1. Mood Elevation
    Feeling unusually optimistic, energetic, or irritable.

    2. Sleep Disturbances
    Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or reduced need for sleep.

    3. Increased Activity or Restlessness
    More active than usual, starting multiple new projects.

    4. Impulsivity/Risky Behavior
    Making impulsive decisions, engaging in risky activities.

    5. Racing Thoughts
    Thoughts moving quickly from one idea to another.

    6. Difficulty Concentrating
    Finding it hard to focus or make decisions.

    7. Irritability or Agitation
    Feeling easily annoyed or overreacting to small issues.

    8. Emotional Sensitivity
    Overreacting emotionally to situations.

    9. Social Withdrawal
    Avoiding social interactions, losing interest in socializing.

    10. Changes in Eating Habits
    Eating significantly more or less than usual.

    11. Performance Changes
    Decline in performance at work or school.

    Total Value: 0/44

    Scoring:
    0-11: Low likelihood of early warning signs.
    12-22: Moderate likelihood; monitor and possibly consult a healthcare professional.
    23-44: Higher likelihood; strongly consider discussing with a healthcare professional.

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