Quote: from HOLLOWdepths at 11:42 pm on Dec. 29, 2008
It seems like you may be getting a little too caught up in the internet tests. I did the same thing, and it turns out I was just choosing the answers I knew would lead to the results I desired. If you're curious about a diagnosis, then going to a doctor for at least sixth months would likely be necessary. Even with that, though, it cannot be ascertained whether you have bipolar disorder until your brain has fully developed, in your mid-20's or so. I've been diagnosed as bipolar by a few different doctors, and unless you are having severe issues with living (as in your mood swings are scaring people, causing poor impulse control, or inviting suicidal or other harmful thoughts), you are probably okay. Try keeping track of your mood, with a journal or something, for about a month. You can show it to your parents, if you'd like to see a doctor. Best of luck :)

this is good advice
the same thing occurs with personality tests. when you take a personality test you tend to give answers that would give you the results you want rather than answers that are accurate.
and of course doctors are not perfect; they are prone to misdiagnosis. if this really impacts your life in a negative way, then go ahead and seek help. i'd research safer, alternative methods of treating bipolar disorder (ways that you can lessen its impact on your life by yourself) before seeing a doctor though.
Post edited at 8:54 pm on Dec. 29, 2008 by Mieux