Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and blood donation

Not right now, but most waits are short. Usually deferred while on mood stabilisers or antipsychotics, some centres accept long-stable cases with specialist input. ## The short answer The medicines and the stability question both matter; centres take the careful line. Ask your treating doctor for a fitness note and call the blood bank before travelling. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: Diagnosis, medicines, stability period. That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone.