Mood Swings Check

MDQ (Mood Disorder Questionnaire)

⏱ 3–5 min 13 questions Free · Private

Take the test now → Talk to someone instead

About this check

The MDQ is a 13-question screener for bipolar-spectrum disorders. It asks whether you have ever had a period where you felt noticeably different from your usual self — more energetic, less needing of sleep, more talkative, or noticeably high or irritable. A positive screen has three components: at least 7 of the 13 symptoms occurred at the same time; they caused moderate or serious problems; and family or doctors have noticed them.

Important: This is a screener, not a diagnosis. The MDQ is intentionally sensitive: many people with ADHD, trauma, or certain personality patterns also screen positive. A psychiatrist can help distinguish bipolar disorder from these look-alikes — the distinction matters for treatment.

What your score means

Below screening threshold · score 0–6

Your score is below 7 of the 13 symptoms — the usual MDQ cutoff. This makes a bipolar-spectrum disorder less likely, though the MDQ only covers symptoms; a proper assessment also considers duration, impact, and family context.

Positive screen · score 7–13

You endorsed 7 or more symptoms. A positive MDQ usually also requires that these symptoms occurred at the same time and caused real problems — points that only a clinical interview can verify. The MDQ has many false positives, especially in people with ADHD or trauma histories.

How it works

Answer each question about periods in your life when you were NOT your usual self.

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If you are in crisis: Please call Tele-MANAS 14416 (free, 24/7, many Indian languages) or 112 for emergencies. You can also reach iCall, Vandrevala Foundation, or AASRA.