Questions for my doctor
If you've just been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, you will have lots of questions for your doctor. Don't hesitate to ask – and ask again – until you understand the answers. Bipolar is a complex, challenging illness. The more you understand it and your mood swings, the better you will be able to manage the triggers that can cause episodes.
Print out this list and take it to your doctor to learn more about how treatment and lifestyle changes may help you live a full, productive life.
Download Questions for my doctor PDF
- What are the names of my medications? How will they help me?
- What is the dose of each medication?
- At what time(s) of day should I take each medication?
- Do I need to take them with food?
- Do I need to avoid any specific foods, prescription or over-the-counter medications or nutritional supplements while I am taking my medications?
- What should I do if I miss a dose?
- What side effects might I expect? Is there a way to control them?
- How long will it take for me to start feeling better after I begin taking my medications?
- How often will I need to come to check my progress and have my medications evaluated?
- When is my next doctor visit? How often should I schedule appointments?
- If my current treatment isn't helpful, what is my next step?
- Do you recommend psychotherapy? What type do you suggest?
- Is there anything I can do to help my treatment work better, such as a change in diet or sleep patterns?
- What other lifestyle changes would you recommend? Would physical activity be useful?
- Will other illnesses I have affect my treatment?
- What if I want to become pregnant? (This applies only to females.)
- How can I reach you in an emergency? In what types of circumstances would I need to call 911?
