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Researchers believe that bipolar disorder is being overdiagnosed, perhaps because clinicians find it easier to treat than disorders with similar symptoms, such as depression.

In the mental health community, there is debate about whether treatment that leads to higher self-esteem should be a goal in itself, or whether improving self-esteem should come as a result of achieving other goals in one’s life.

In elderly patients, symptoms of depression can be mistaken for symptoms of another medical problem, so it is important for clinicians to consider all physical problems and medications of elderly patients before making a diagnosis.

A genetic testing kit for bipolar disorder is now available to consumers, but because of the many variables involved in genetics, even if a particular gene is identified, it does not necessarily mean that person will go on to develop the disorder.

Patients with eating disorders who also had problems with self-esteem or interpersonal relationships responded favorably to treatment that combined cognitive behavioral therapy with counseling to address their underlying issues.

People who suffer from depression are more likely to have a sleep-related breathing problem such as apnea. Treating the sleep problem may help alleviate the depression in some people.

While children with ADHD typically have difficulty staying focused and sitting still, adults with the disorder are more likely to struggle with attention and memory. As with children, medication and psychotherapy is the best treatment option for adults.