When I talk with patients about their mood swings, some describe feeling like they’re on a roller coaster, with dramatic highs and lows. But others tell me, “It’s not that extreme—it’s more like I’m constantly circling between feeling okay and not-so-okay.” This experience often points to cyclothymia, a milder but still impactful condition within the bipolar spectrum.
What Is Cyclothymia?
Cyclothymia, or cyclothymic disorder, is characterized by frequent shifts between mild hypomanic and depressive symptoms. Unlike the sharp climbs and plunges of Bipolar I or II, cyclothymia is more like a merry-go-round, with gentler, repetitive undulations. The ups don’t reach the intensity of mania or full hypomania, and the downs aren’t as deep as major depressive episodes. Still, the constant motion can feel exhausting.
People with cyclothymia often feel trapped in a loop of mood changes. During the “up” phases, they might feel more energetic, social, or creative, but these periods are often followed by low energy, sadness, or irritability. These shifts can occur over days or weeks, often leaving individuals feeling unbalanced or unsure of what’s coming next.
How Is Cyclothymia Diagnosed?
Diagnosing cyclothymia requires a long-term perspective. During treatment, I focus on patterns that have persisted over at least two years for adults (or one year for younger patients). These subtle but consistent mood shifts are what define cyclothymia.
Many people with cyclothymia dismiss their symptoms as personality traits, like being “moody” or “sensitive.” This can delay diagnosis and lead to frustration. Early identification is crucial, as untreated cyclothymia can sometimes develop into Bipolar I or II.
How Cyclothymia Impacts Life
Cyclothymia may not have the extreme highs and lows of other bipolar disorders, but the constant circling of mood changes can still take a toll. Patients have shared with me how these fluctuations affect their relationships, self-esteem, and ability to stick to long-term plans. While the highs can feel enjoyable or productive, the lows often bring feelings of fatigue, discouragement, and doubt.
Cyclothymia is also frequently misdiagnosed as unipolar depression, anxiety, or even ADHD. This is why a detailed understanding of mood patterns over time is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Managing Cyclothymia
Treating cyclothymia involves stabilizing the undulating patterns of mood. Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) is particularly helpful in creating consistent daily routines to regulate emotional rhythms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on challenging negative thoughts and developing strategies to navigate mood swings. For those who struggle with emotional intensity, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides practical tools for managing reactions.
Lifestyle strategies like regular sleep, stress management, and exercise are key to reducing the merry-go-round effect of cyclothymia. Mindfulness techniques can also help individuals stay present and grounded during mood transitions.
Learn More and Take the First Step
If your mood feels like it’s constantly circling, understanding cyclothymia is the first step toward creating stability. My self-paced e-learning module offers practical tools and expert insights to help you break the cycle and build a more balanced life.
Cyclothymia may feel like a constant merry-go-round, but with the right support, you can step off and regain control. Reach out today to learn how we can work together to achieve emotional stability.
