Possibly Bipolar 2

[Disneyland]

My psychiatrist told me to keep a watch on my moods over the next few weeks, to see whether or not I should be treated for bipolar 2.

I have no idea how I'm supposed to "watch my moods". Should I be keeping a journal of every little mood I have? Even then, I have no idea sometimes whether moods are good or bad. It all seems relative, but I can't tell. Anyone know what I mean?

[Whispered Secret]

I wouln't keep a journal of every little mood, because everyone has dips throughout the day. But keep an eye on and make a note of any big dips, or dips that last more than you think they should. Equally keep a note of any elevated moods. Sometimes instead of writing down moods it can be easier to note down thoughts, as they might be easier to interpret.

[riotgrrrlcori]

I'd generally look out for symptoms. Hypomanic episodes/depressive episodes, and that kind of thing, although keeping a journal in general is not a bad idea. Sometimes, you can just write how you've felt and what you've done through the day, and when you're further away from it before your next meeting with your counselor, you can read it and look back more objectively on how you've been feeling, or let your psychiatrist see your journal.

[caz23]

I keep track of my moods for my psychiatrist by using a mood chart. I've actually concocted my own chart to suit my own needs but there are plenty of downloadable templates on the net. Over the months I've now basically formed a big graph of how my moods have been and in addition to keeping notes or a journal it does prove to be quite useful for my psych as well myself. Its quite insightful infact and well worth the effort.

Some good suggestions above too. I think the important thing is to find a method that suits you and sticking to it. Good luck with it :)

[xMandarrx]

I use a mood chart to keep track of my moods. I'm going through something very similar. The mood chart I use is a template I downloaded from online.

[Nine]

I think mood charts are useless (for me anyway, especially because of some personal reasons).

If I were you I would just focus on hypomanic symptoms. Look up a list of symptoms and then keep note of when you feel those things, how severe they are, what exactly you are feeling, etc