What is Cyclothymic Disorder?
Cyclothymic disorder is a type of mood disorder that is characterized by periods of hypomania (elevated mood) and depression. The mood swings in cyclothymic disorder are not as severe as those seen in bipolar disorder, but they can still have a significant impact on a person's life.
The symptoms of hypomania in cyclothymic disorder include:
- Increased energy and activity
- Increased talkativeness
- Racing thoughts
- Decreased need for sleep
- Increased self-esteem
- Increased distractibility
- Impulsive or risky behavior
The symptoms of depression in cyclothymic disorder include:
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep problems
- Thoughts of death or suicide
To be diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder, a person must experience at least two years of mood swings that meet the criteria for hypomania and depression. The mood swings must also cause significant distress or impairment in a person's life.
Cyclothymic disorder is often treated with medication and/or therapy. Medications that are used to treat cyclothymic disorder include mood stabilizers, such as lithium and lamotrigine. Therapy can help people with cyclothymic disorder learn how to manage their mood swings and improve their coping skills.
People with cyclothymic disorder are at an increased risk of developing full-blown bipolar disorder. If you are experiencing symptoms of cyclothymic disorder, it is important to see a doctor or mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment.
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Sleep problems
- Thoughts of death or suicide
To be diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder, a person must experience at least two years of mood swings that meet the criteria for hypomania and depression. The mood swings must also cause significant distress or impairment in a person's life.
Cyclothymic disorder is often treated with medication and/or therapy. Medications that are used to treat cyclothymic disorder include mood stabilizers, such as lithium and lamotrigine. Therapy can help people with cyclothymic disorder learn how to manage their mood swings and improve their coping skills.
People with cyclothymic disorder are at an increased risk of developing full-blown bipolar disorder. If you are experiencing symptoms of cyclothymic disorder, it is important to see a doctor or mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment.
References
Hooley, Jill, M. et al. Abnormal Psychology. Available from: VitalSource Bookshelf, (18th Edition). Pearson Education (US), 2019.
