Cyclothymic Disorders

Definition

A disorder characterized by stages of mild mood changes with stages of mild depression and excitement (hypomania).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The cause of cyclothymic disorder is unknown. It is similar to bipolar disorder (manic depressive illness) but less extreme. The changes in mood are very irregular and abrupt, but the severity of the swings is less.

Symptoms

• alternating episodes of excitement (hypomania) and mild depression lasting for at least 2 years
  
• persistent symptoms, less than 2 consecutive symptom-free months
  

Signs and tests

The person's own description of the behavior usually leads to diagnosis of the disorder.

Treatment

Cyclothymia is treated like bipolar disorder, though often not as aggressively. A combination of antimanic drugs, antidepressants, or psychotherapy appears to work best to treat this condition.

Support Groups

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems.
Expectations (prognosis)

There is likely to be a need for long-term treatment.

Complications

There is some potential for persistent depression or progression to more severe forms of bipolar disorder.
Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider or mental health professional if you experience persistent, alternating periods of depression and excitement; particularly if this is affecting your work or social life.

Prevention

Unknown