Description

Cyclothymia (sy-kloe-THIE-me-uh), also called cyclothymic disorder, is a rare disorder of mood. Cyclothymia causes emotional ups and downs, but are not as extreme as bipolar I or II disorder.

With cyclothymia, you experience periods when your mood significantly moves up and down the line of reference. You may feel on top of the world for a time, followed by a period of low when you feel a bit down. Among these cyclothymic high and low, you can feel stable and well.

Despite the ups and downs of cyclothymia are less extreme than those of bipolar disorder, it is important to seek help to manage these symptoms, as it may interfere with your ability to function and increase the risk of bipolar disorder I or II disorder.

Treatment options for cyclothymia include psychological therapy (psychotherapy), medications, and close, continuous follow-up with your doctor.

Symptoms

The cyclothymia symptoms alternate between emotional highs and lows. The maxims of cyclothymia are the symptoms of elevated mood (hypomanic symptoms). The serious consist of mild or moderate depressive symptoms.

The cyclothymia symptoms are similar to those of bipolar I or II disorder, but are less severe. When you have cyclothymia, you can usually function in your daily life, although it is not always so. The unpredictable nature of their mood changes can significantly disrupt your life, because you never know how it's going to feel.

Hypomanic symptoms

The signs and symptoms of the maxims of cyclothymia may include:

  • An exaggerated sense of happiness or well-being (euphoria)
  • Extreme optimism
  • Inflated self-esteem
  • Talking more than usual
  • The lack of criteria that can result in risky behavior or reckless options
  • Racing thoughts
  • Irritable, agitated behavior
  • An excess of physical activity
  • The increased drive to perform or achieve goals (sexual, work-related or social)
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Tendency to be easily distracted
  • Inability to concentrate

Depressive symptoms

The signs and symptoms of low levels of cyclothymia may include:

  • The feeling of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Want to cry
  • Irritability, especially in children and adolescents
  • Loss of interest in activities once considered enjoyable
  • Changes in weight
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Sleep problems
  • The concern
  • Fatigue or feeling slowed down
  • Concentration problems
  • Thinking about death or suicide.

When to see a doctor

If you have any of the symptoms of cyclothymia, seek medical help as soon as possible. Cyclothymia in general there is nothing better on its own. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, work up the courage to confide in someone who can help you take the first step.

If a loved one has symptoms of cyclothymia, talk openly and honestly with the person about your concerns. You can't force someone to seek professional help, but can offer support and help to find a qualified doctor or mental health provider.

Suicidal thoughts

Although the thoughts of suicide that could occur with cyclothymia, is more likely to occur if you have bipolar I or II disorder. If you are considering suicide right now:

  • Call 911 or your local emergency services number, or go to a hospital emergency department.
  • In contact with a direct line of suicide. In the united states, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat . The services are free and confidential.

If you just can't make that call, reach out to someone else — immediately — as your physician, mental health professional, a family member, a friend or someone in your faith community.

Causes

It is not known specifically what causes the cyclothymia. As with many mental health disorders, research shows that it may be the result of a combination of:

  • Genetics, as cyclothymia tends to run in families
  • The differences in the way the brain works, such as changes in the brain of neurobiology
  • Environmental issues, such as traumatic experiences or prolonged periods of stress

Risk factors

Cyclothymia is believed to be relatively rare. But the true estimates are difficult to make because people can be diagnosed or misdiagnosed with other mood disorders, such as depression.

Cyclothymia typically begins in adolescence or young adulthood. It affects about the same number of males and females.

Complications

If you have cyclothymia:

  • Not treated can lead to major emotional problems that affect every area of your life
  • There is a high risk of subsequent development of bipolar I or II disorder
  • Substance misuse is common
  • You can also have an anxiety disorder
  • You may be at greater risk of suicidal thoughts and suicide

Prevention

There is No sure way to prevent cyclothymia. However, the treatment at the first sign of a mental health disorder can help prevent cyclothymia worsening. Long-term preventive treatment can also help to prevent minor symptoms of becoming a full-blown episodes of hypomania, mania, or major depression.

Diagnosis

Your doctor or other health care provider must determine if you have cyclothymia, bipolar I or II disorder, depression, or another condition that may be causing your symptoms. To help determine a diagnosis of your symptoms, it is likely that you have several exams and tests generally include:

  • Physical exam. A physical exam and laboratory tests may be done to help identify medical problems that may be causing your symptoms.
  • The psychological evaluation. A doctor or mental health provider will talk with you about their thoughts, feelings and behavior patterns. You can also fill out a psychological self-assessment or questionnaire. With your permission, family members or close friends may be asked to provide information about your symptoms, such as a possible hypomanic or depressive symptoms.
  • The mood of graphics. To identify what is going on, your doctor may ask you to keep a daily record of your moods, sleep patterns, or other factors that could help with the diagnosis and find the right treatment.

Diagnostic criteria

For a diagnosis of cyclothymia, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, lists some of these items:

  • You have had many periods of elevated mood (hypomanic symptoms) and periods of depressive symptoms for at least two years (one year for children and adolescents) — with these highs and lows that occur during at least half of that time.
  • The periods of stable moods usually last less than two months.
  • Their symptoms significantly affect you socially, at work, at school, or in other important areas.
  • The symptoms do not meet criteria for bipolar disorder, major depression or another mental disorder.
  • Your symptoms are not caused by substance use or a medical illness.

Treatment

Cyclothymia requires lifelong treatment, even during periods when you feel better — usually guided by a mental health provider specializing in the treatment of the condition. For the treatment of cyclothymia, your doctor or mental health provider works with you to:

  • To decrease the risk of bipolar disorder I or II disorder, due to which the cyclothymia involves a high risk of developing bipolar disorder
  • Reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, allowing you to live a more balanced and enjoyable life
  • To prevent a relapse of symptoms, through a continued treatment during periods of remission (maintenance treatment)
  • To deal with the consumption of alcohol or other substance use problems, as it can worsen the symptoms of cyclothymia

The main treatments for cyclothymia are medications and psychotherapy.

Drugs

There are No medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration specifically for cyclothymia, but your doctor can prescribe medicines that are used to treat bipolar disorder. These medications can help control the cyclothymia symptoms and prevent the periods of hypomania and depressive symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, also called psychological counseling or talk therapy, is a vital part of cyclothymia treatment and can be provided in individual, family or group. Several types of therapy may be useful, such as:

  • The cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). A common treatment for cyclothymia, CBT focuses on the identification of the unhealthy, negative beliefs and behaviors and replace them with healthy, positive ones. CBT can help you identify what triggers your symptoms. You will also learn effective strategies to manage stress and cope with troubling situations.
  • Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT). IPSRT is focused on the stabilization of daily rhythms, such as sleep, wakefulness, and time of meals. A consistent routine allows a better mood management. People with mood disorders can benefit from the creation of a daily routine for sleep, eating and exercise.
  • Other therapies. Other therapies have been studied with some evidence of success. Ask your doctor if any of the other options may be appropriate for you.

Lifestyle and home remedies

In addition to professional treatment, you can build on your treatment plan following this life style and self-care measures:

  • Take your medicines as directed. Even if you feel well, resist any temptation to skip your medications. If it stops, the cyclothymia symptoms are likely to return.
  • Pay attention to the warning signs. You may have identified a pattern to your cyclothymia symptoms and the causes that trigger it. Follow your treatment plan if you feel that you are facing a period of high or low of the symptoms. Involve family members or friends in watching for warning signs. Addressing the symptoms early can prevent it from getting worse.
  • Stop drinking or using recreational drugs. Alcohol and recreational drugs can trigger mood changes. Talk with your doctor if you have trouble quitting smoking on your own.
  • Check before you take any other medicines. Call the doctor to try cyclothymia before taking over-the-counter drugs or medicines prescribed by another doctor. Sometimes other medications trigger periods of cyclothymia symptoms, or it may interfere with medications you are already taking.
  • Keep a record. Tracking your mood, daily routines, and the important events of life. These records may help you and your mental health provider to understand the effect of the treatments and to identify the patterns of thought and behavior associated with the cyclothymia symptoms.
  • Get the regular physical activity and exercise. Moderate, regular physical activity and exercise can help stabilize your mood. Working out releases chemicals in the brain that make you feel good (endorphins). It can also help you to sleep, and has a number of other advantages. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
  • Get enough sleep. Do not stay awake all night. Instead, get plenty of sleep. Getting enough sleep is an important part of the management of his state of mind. If you have trouble sleeping, talk with your doctor or mental health provider about what you can do.

Coping and support

Deal with cyclothymia can be difficult. During periods when you feel better, or when you are having a hypomanic symptoms, you may be tempted to stop treatment. Here are some ways to deal with cyclothymia:

  • Learn about the disorder. Learning about cyclothymia and its possible complications can empower you and motivate you to stick to your treatment plan. Also, you can help educate your family and friends about what is going on.
  • Join a support group. Ask your healthcare provider if there is some kind of support group that can help you to reach out to others facing similar challenges.
  • Stay focused on your goals. The successful management of cyclothymia can take time. Stay motivated to keep your goals in mind.
  • Find healthy communication. Explore healthy ways to channel their energy, such as hobbies, exercise and recreational activities.
  • Learn relaxation and stress management. Try relaxation methods or stress-reduction techniques, such as meditation and yoga.

Preparing for your appointment

If you have common signs and symptoms of cyclothymia, call your doctor. After your first appointment, your doctor may refer you to a mental health provider who can help make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan that is right for you.

You could ask a trusted family member or friend to come to your appointment, if possible. Someone close to you can provide additional information about your condition and can help you to remember what has been discussed during your appointment.

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

  • The symptoms I have been experiencing, and for how long
  • Your medical information, including other physical or mental health conditions with which you have been diagnosed
  • Any medication you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, vitamins and supplements, and dosage
  • Questions to ask your doctor or mental health provider to make the most of your time together

The questions may include:

  • What do you think is the cause of my symptoms?
  • There are other possible causes?
  • How are you going to determine my diagnosis?
  • What are the treatments that could be useful in my case?
  • How much do you expect my symptoms improve with treatment?
  • I'm going to need to be treated for the rest of my life?
  • What lifestyle changes can help me manage my symptoms?
  • How often you should be seen for follow-up visits?
  • I'm in a higher risk of other mental health problems?
  • Do you have printed material I can have? What sites do you recommend?

Do not hesitate to ask any other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor or mental health provider may ask:

  • How would you describe your symptoms?
  • How to have people close to you describe your symptoms?
  • When you or your loved ones first notice these symptoms?
  • The symptoms continued to improve, or get worse with time?
  • If you have severe high and low periods, how long do they usually last?
  • Do you also have periods where your mood feels relatively stable?
  • How would you describe your mental and emotional state during high-versus low periods? How do your loved ones to answer this question about you?
  • How would you say that your decisions and behaviors change during the high versus low periods? How do your loved ones to answer this question about you?
  • Do their physical needs to change during high-versus low periods, such as their need for sleep, food, or sex?
  • How are these cycles that affect their lives, including work, school and relationships?
  • Any of your close relatives of the similar symptoms?
  • Have you been diagnosed with any medical condition?
  • Have been treated for other mental health disorders in the past? If yes, what type of treatment was the most useful?
  • Have you ever thought of harming yourself or others?
  • Do you drink alcohol or use recreational drugs? If so, how often?
Symptoms and treatment of Cyclothymia (cyclothymic disorder)