Bipolar spectrum disorders are mood conditions characterized by episodes of elevated or irritable mood along with periods of depression. The Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ) is a brief self report screening tool that helps identify whether an individual has experienced symptoms that may be consistent with hypomanic or manic episodes. It is commonly used in primary care and mental health settings to highlight patterns that could suggest a bipolar spectrum condition.
This resource page explains how the MDQ works, what it asks about, and how clinicians can use it as part of a broader assessment. The MDQ focuses on times when a person was “not their usual self” and experienced changes in mood, energy, activity, or behavior that affected daily life.
A downloadable version of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire is available for clinicians using the download resource button above.
A downloadable PDF of the Mood Disorder Questionnaire is available for clinicians using the download resource button above.
Understanding How the Mood Disorder Questionnaire Works
The Mood Disorder Questionnaire asks whether there has ever been a period of time when the person was not their usual self and experienced a series of specific changes. As shown on page 1 of the PDF, these include feeling unusually good or hyper, marked irritability or starting arguments, increased self confidence, needing much less sleep, talking more or faster than usual, racing thoughts, increased distractibility, having more energy, doing many more activities than usual, being more social or outgoing, greater interest in sex, engaging in unusual or risky behaviors, and spending money in ways that caused trouble. Each item is answered yes or no.
If more than one symptom is endorsed, the MDQ then asks whether several of these ever occurred during the same period of time and how much of a problem they caused, with options ranging from no problems to serious problem in areas such as work, family, money, or legal issues. The pattern of symptom endorsement, co-occurrence, and associated impairment helps clinicians decide whether a more detailed evaluation for bipolar disorder is warranted. The questionnaire is intended for screening purposes only and is not a stand alone diagnostic tool. Full wording of the questions and response options can be reviewed in the downloadable resource using the download resource button above.
“Screening tools that focus on periods of elevated mood and increased activity can help clinicians recognize bipolar spectrum disorders that might otherwise be missed.”
— National Institute of Mental Health
This perspective highlights the value of the MDQ as part of a structured approach to mood assessment. It encourages clinicians to look beyond depressive symptoms alone and consider whether past episodes of elevated or irritable mood may be present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bipolar disorder often involves episodes of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, reduced need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, and risk taking behaviors. Many individuals also experience episodes of depression with low mood, loss of interest, and fatigue. Recognizing this pattern of mood shifts helps guide appropriate assessment and treatment.
Unipolar depression involves episodes of low mood and related symptoms without a history of hypomanic or manic episodes. Bipolar disorder includes both depressive episodes and periods of elevated or irritable mood with increased activity or energy. Distinguishing between these conditions is important because treatment strategies may differ.
Undetected bipolar disorder can lead to recurrent episodes, functional impairment, and increased risk of substance use or self harm. Screening helps clinicians identify when symptoms suggest a bipolar spectrum condition so that more comprehensive evaluation can be completed. Early recognition supports safer and more effective treatment planning.
A family history of bipolar disorder, early onset mood symptoms, recurrent depressive episodes, and periods of unusually increased energy or activity may increase the likelihood of bipolar disorder. Substance use, sleep disruption, and stress can also influence symptom presentation. Clinicians consider these factors when deciding on further assessment.
Treatment may include mood stabilizing medication classes, certain atypical antipsychotics, psychotherapy, psychoeducation, and strategies to support regular sleep and daily routines. These approaches aim to reduce the frequency and severity of mood episodes and improve overall functioning. A collaborative, individualized plan supports long term stability.
Conclusion
The Mood Disorder Questionnaire is a practical self report screening tool that helps clinicians identify symptoms consistent with bipolar spectrum disorders. By focusing on times when individuals were not their usual selves and experienced changes in mood, energy, and behavior, the MDQ offers a structured way to explore possible hypomanic or manic episodes. It is easy to administer and interpret in outpatient settings.
Incorporating the MDQ into routine assessment can prompt important conversations about past mood changes that may not surface during brief interviews focused solely on current symptoms. The downloadable resource provides the full questionnaire and response structure using the download resource button above. The Mood Disorder Questionnaire supports early recognition of bipolar spectrum symptoms and guides clinicians toward more detailed evaluation when needed.
The Mood Disorder Questionnaire contributes to comprehensive mood assessment and helps clinicians match patients with appropriate treatment and follow up.