Bipolar Risk Interview

Bipolar Risk Interview (Non‑Validated)

Description

This is an original, non‑validated interview guide for exploring bipolar risk factors. It is not diagnostic and should not be used as a screening instrument.

Use Cases

• When clinical history suggests possible bipolar spectrum features
• When antidepressant response has been atypical or poor
• When family history suggests bipolar disorder

Interactive Mode (Lightweight)

Use this mode when the clinician asks to go step-by-step.

1. Confirm this is a non-validated interview guide and check readiness. 2. Ask one prompt at a time from the interview guide and wait for a response. 3. Summarize key points and confirm accuracy before moving on. 4. At the end, synthesize risk factors, red flags, and functional impact with suggested next steps. 5. If safety concerns arise, pause and follow appropriate safety protocols.

Interview Guide

See: assets/interview-guide.md

Safety Notes

See: references/safety-notes.md

Documentation

Summarize history of mood elevation, sleep reduction, impulsivity, and functional impact.

Bipolar Risk Interview Guide (Non‑Validated)

Key Domains

1. Mood elevation history

• Periods of unusually elevated, expansive, or irritable mood
• Duration and episodic pattern

2. Sleep reduction with energy

• Decreased need for sleep without fatigue
• Increased activity during those periods

3. Speech/thought changes

• Rapid speech, racing thoughts
• Distractibility

4. Risk behavior

• Impulsivity, spending, sexual risk, legal trouble

5. Functional impact

• Work/school disruption
• Relationship strain

6. Family history

• Bipolar disorder, psychosis, psychiatric hospitalizations

Summary Prompt

• Describe the most concerning period of mood elevation (onset, duration, impact).
• Note whether episodes are distinct from baseline.

Safety Notes (Non‑Validated Interview)

• If the patient reports dangerous impulsivity, psychosis, or severe agitation, prioritize urgent safety assessment.
• This interview is not a diagnostic tool; use clinical judgment and refer for comprehensive evaluation.