Is a delay in the diagnosis of bipolar disorder inevitable?

Objective: A diagnosis of bipolar disorder (BD) is often preceded by an initial diagnosis of depression, creating a delay in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of BD. Although previous research has focused on predictors of a diagnosis change from depression to BD, the research on this delay in diagnosis is sparse. Therefore, the present study examined the time taken to make a BD diagnosis following an initial diagnosis of major depressive disorder in order to further understand the patient characteristics and psychological factors that may explain this delay.

The relationship between bipolar disorders, anxiety, and trauma - implications for clinical practice.

Objective: To assess the relationship between bipolar spectrum disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, and personality function.

Method: A cohort of 37 diagnostically challenging bipolar spectrum patients, including both bipolar and personality disordered patients, were assessed using the Structured Combined Interview for DSM-IV to establish diagnosis of bipolarity and anxiety. Diagnoses were then quantitatively related to personality function, using the DSM-5 Level of Personality Function Scale, and to attachment, using the Relationship Questionnaire and Relationship Style Questionnaire.

Mixed state discrimination: a DSM problem that won׳t go away?

Background: DSM׳s replacement of 'mixed episodes' with 'mixed features' has ironically created a specifier, which potentially lacks specificity because it overlooks two key symptoms: psychomotor agitation and distractibility. Therefore, the present study examined the presence of psychomotor agitation and distractibility across the mood disorder spectrum.

Methods: Two hundred patients were diagnosed and assigned to one of three groups (depression, bipolar spectrum disorder (BDspectrum) and bipolar disorder) based on clinical evaluation by a psychiatrist.

Is coping well a matter of personality? A study of euthymic unipolar and bipolar patients.

Background: Euthymic bipolar disorder (BD) patients often demonstrate better clinical outcomes than remitted patients with unipolar illness (UP). Reasons for this are uncertain, however, personality and coping styles are each likely to play a key role. This study examined differences between euthymic BD and UP patients with respect to the inter-relationship between personality, coping style, and clinical outcomes.