Hi everyone,

As you may or may not know, I am currently undiagnosed and I am almost convinced that I have bipolar disorder (current symptoms, family history, etc.) I have my first pdoc appointment, in nearly 6 months, coming up in 2 days in an attempt to get a diagnosis and to begin treatment.

I was wondering if I could get input from you guys regarding my upcoming appointment. My previous pdoc sessions all revolved around treatment for ADHD and depression, however, I am currently in some new territory here with getting treatment for bipolar disorder.

Some questions for you all, if you don't mind answering:

1. Is it possible to obtain a diagnosis and to start treatment only after 1 visit?
2. Should I show up prepared with a manifest, so to speak, of my life history and recurring episodes? If so, how specific should I get?
3. Do you recommend I bring my wife to my appointment with me?
4. ShouId I bother with taking a mood journal for the next couple of days?
5. Does treatment usually begin with some first line meds? Or should I expect a recommendation to go inpatient or to do an intensive outpatient program?
6. If I can't get a diagnosis after the first visit, how many visits should I "hold out" for before I can expect an answer from my pdoc?
7. Can I expect to get a thorough appointment at first? Or is it more likely that this will be a short, in-and-out, 15-30 initial assessment?

I guess that's it for now. Thank you all in advance for any replies and thoughts. Cheers!