What is this test for?
This test explores the bipolar spectrum: periods of marked elevation in mood and energy (closer to type I, via the MDQ) and hypomania, often more subtle (closer to type II, via the HCL-32). The two scales are scored separately — we never merge their scores.
Who is it for?
For people who experience mood swings, phases of acceleration followed by lows, or who have been diagnosed with depression but also recognise “high” periods. Spotting bipolarity is often a long road: a screen can help open up the conversation.
How does it work?
You answer thinking about your whole life (not just the past few days): 13 MDQ questions with two context questions, then the 32 HCL-32 items. Each scale gives its own verdict, estimated probability and reliability, immediately and locally.
The science behind this test
Hirschfeld’s MDQ (Mood Disorder Questionnaire) and Angst’s HCL-32 (Hypomania Checklist) are two reference instruments, validated in French. The MDQ is more specific, the HCL-32 more sensitive: it is their combination, with clinical judgement, that counts. Thresholds, sensitivities, specificities and sources are shown with your result.
The reference tests used by professionals
This questionnaire replaces none of the tools used in consultation. Here are the ones professionals actually use:
- Entretien psychiatrique structuré — le diagnostic de bipolarité est clinique et s’appuie sur l’histoire des épisodes
- Suivi longitudinal de l’humeur — exactement ce que MoodTrakr t’aide à constituer pour ton/ta praticien·ne
Frequently asked questions
Can this test diagnose bipolar disorder?
No. It is a screen, not a diagnosis. Bipolarity is only established in consultation, by a psychiatrist. A positive result is an invitation to seek help, not a conclusion.
Why two questionnaires (MDQ and HCL-32)?
Because they are complementary: the MDQ mainly catches marked “high” episodes, the HCL-32 captures subtler hypomania the MDQ can miss. We score them separately to stay faithful to their validation.
Are my answers confidential?
Completely. The calculation runs in your browser; no answer is transmitted. If you create an account, your result is stored end-to-end encrypted — the server can never read it.
I have a depression diagnosis — is this test for me?
It may be useful: some people diagnosed with depression also experience “high” phases that went unnoticed. Talking to your psychiatrist remains essential.
Sources & methodology
This page draws on the references below — official guidelines, published studies and institutional documents. Every link is checked automatically at each release. Instrument attribution: MDQ — © R. M. A. Hirschfeld et al. ; traduction française © HUG, Programme Bipolaire (Weber-Rouget & Aubry). HCL-32 — © Université de Zurich (J. Angst). Reproduits pour un usage de dépistage non commercial.
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