Post #3418613

2026-06-26 02:54 UTC

"Your first step would usually be to speak to your GP. It can help to keep a record of your moods. This can help you and your GP to understand your mood swings. Bipolar UK have a mood diary and a mood scale on their website. You can find their details in the Useful contacts section at the bottom of this page. Your GP cannot diagnose bipolar disorder. Only a psychiatrist can make a formal diagnosis. Your GP may arrange an appointment with a psychiatrist if you have: depression, and ever felt very excited or not in control of your mood or behaviour for at least 4 days in a row. They might refer you to a psychiatrist at your local NHS community mental health team (CMHT). Your GP might think that you have mania or severe depression. Or there is a chance that you are a danger to yourself or someone else. If so, they should make an urgent referral to the CMHT for you. You may have an episode of psychosis for the first time. If so, your GP should refer you to your local NHS early intervention team. Bipolar disorder can be difficult to diagnose because it affects everyone differently. Also, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can be experienced by people who have other mental illnesses. It can take a long time to get a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. For more information, see our webpage on NHS mental health teams."

Replies (1)

@MxVerda@lgbtqia.space 2026-06-26 02:54

"How can I get support? You can speak to your GP. You should be given your own assessment through NHS mental health services to work out what effect your caring role is having on your health. And what support you need. Such as practical support, and emergency support. These are some other options for you: Join a carers service Join a carers support group Ask your local authority for a carer’s assessment Read about the condition Apply for welfare benefits for carers Rethink Mental Illness run carer support groups in some areas. You can also search for groups on the Carers Trust website. Links for both are below: Rethink Mental Illness Carers Trust How can I support the person I care for? There are things you can do which might make it easier to support someone with bipolar disorder. For example, you can try to understand their symptoms, treatment and self-management skills. You should be aware of what you can do if you are worried about their mental state. It can be helpful to know the contact information for their mental health team or GP. You could find out from your relative if they have a crisis plan. You could help them to make one if they have not already. As a carer, you should be involved in decisions about care planning. But you do not have a legal right to this. Medical teams should encourage the person that you care for to allow information to be shared with you. For more information see our webpages on the following: Supporting someone with a mental illness Carer’s assessments – Under the Care Act 2014 Getting help for someone in a mental health crisis Suicidal thoughts - How to support someone Responding to unusual behaviour linked to mental illness Confidentiality, information and your loved one - For loved ones of people living with a mental illness"

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