The Mood Disorder Questionnaire

The Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) is specifically designed to help people find out if they may have manic or hypomanic symptoms linked to bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder that causes extreme mood episodes. Typically, people with bipolar disorder experience major depressive episodes and manic or hypomanic episodes that are characterized by intense changes in their thought processes and behaviors.

Since there are multiple types of bipolar disorder, it is important to consult a medical professional to receive an accurate diagnosis. The MDQ is only a starting point for people who believe they may have bipolar disorder, and quiz results do not replace a doctor’s evaluation.

How Does the MDQ Work?

The Mood Disorder Questionnaire is a self-administered quiz that is comprised primarily of “yes” or “no” questions. After answering the questions honestly, the answers will be tallied up to determine a positive or negative screen. The MDQ should only take about five minutes to complete.

Validity and Limitations of the MDQ

Research studies have found that the MDQ provides a fairly accurate screening of bipolar disorder. The quiz can identify 70% of people who have bipolar disorder and 90% of people who do not have bipolar disorder.

The MDQ is better at detecting the manic episodes seen in bipolar I disorder than other forms of bipolar disorder. However, it is important to talk to a doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis. Each type of bipolar disorder can have its own unique set of challenges, symptoms and treatment plans that only medical professionals are qualified to assess.

Take the Mood Disorder Questionnaire

The Mood Disorder Questionnaire should only be used as a starting point. It’s important to keep in mind that a positive screening doesn’t always equal a bipolar disorder diagnosis. Additionally, a negative screening does not mean that a person does not have bipolar disorder. The only way to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment is through a doctor’s evaluation.

You can take the MDQ test by using the quiz below. Please answer each question honestly and to the best of your ability.

Scoring the MDQ

After completing the MDQ, your answers are evaluated to determine the likelihood of your symptoms being linked to bipolar disorder. You have a positive screening for bipolar disorder if you meet all of the following criteria:

• Answered “yes” to seven or more events in question one
• Answered “yes” to question two
• Answered “moderate problem” or “serious problem” in question three

What Your Results Mean

A positive screening means that you may have a manic episode associated with a form of bipolar disorder. The next step is to schedule an appointment with your doctor to receive an evaluation and official diagnosis. A mental health professional can check these symptoms to judge their duration and intensity. A professional can differentiate these symptoms from those of other disorders like anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or intoxication from a substance use disorder.

Only a medical professional can give you an accurate bipolar disorder diagnosis, and MDQ results do not guarantee a diagnosis. The questionnaire is simply a starting point for finding out whether you may have the disorder.

Bipolar disorder and substance use often occur together. If you have a substance use disorder and a co-occurring mental health condition such as bipolar disorder, The Recovery Village can help. Contact us today to learn about treatment options that can help you recover from co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders.