[Diagnosis of bipolar disorder and rationale of early treatment]

The earlier bipolarity is diagnosed and treated, the better the chances of durable recovery The bipolar spectrum consists of a large panel of clinical syndromes with heterogeneous symptoms. Clinical studies show that, on average, a period of nine years elapses between onset of the first mood symptoms and appropriate prescription of mood stabilizers. Tools such as the bipolarity index can help with earlier and more precise diagnosis of bipolarity, and with the choice of the best treatment to prevent complications of bipolar illness.