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What Assessments Are Used to Differentiate Between ADHD and Bipolar Disorder? 

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Differentiating between ADHD and bipolar disorder can be challenging, as both conditions share symptoms such as impulsivity, mood swings, and emotional dysregulation. However, proper ADHD and bipolar assessment is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Several evaluation tools and methods are used to distinguish between the two conditions and to ensure the right treatment approach. 

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Evaluation Tools for ADHD and Bipolar Disorder 

The first step in the assessment process involves a thorough clinical interview. For ADHD, the clinician will focus on symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that have been persistent over time and across multiple settings. For bipolar disorder, the focus shifts to identifying episodes of mood instability, including manic or hypomanic episodes, and depressive episodes, which last for a prolonged period. 

Rating Scales and Questionnaires 

Standardised evaluation tools, such as the Conners Rating Scale for ADHD and the Mood Disorder Questionnaire for bipolar disorder, are often used to gather detailed information from parents, teachers, or other individuals who interact regularly with the patient. These tools help assess the frequency, duration, and severity of symptoms, which are essential for differential diagnosis. 

Mood Monitoring and Symptom Tracking 

For bipolar disorder, mood monitoring is often conducted over time, as mood shifts in bipolar disorder are episodic, with distinct periods of mania or depression. By tracking mood trends and behaviours over weeks or months, clinicians can better determine whether the patient is experiencing manic episodes or simply emotional reactivity linked to ADHD. 

Accurate ADHD and bipolar assessment involve a combination of clinical interviews, rating scales, and mood monitoring. This comprehensive approach helps clinicians accurately distinguish between ADHD and bipolar disorder, ensuring that the appropriate treatment plan is put in place. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Differential Diagnosis of ADHD.

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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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