A mild form of bipolar disorder in which the person experiences alternating depression and excitement.
Cyclothymia refers to a chronic mood disorder that involves numerous hypomanic and depressive episodes that do not meet criteria for a bipolar affective disorder (BAD). The term was first used in the late 1800s and is credited to Kahlbaum, who described the condition as cyclical insanity. It was Kraepelin, however, who described cyclothymia as a temperament that predisposed individuals to more severe (and cyclical) episodes of mania and depression. More recently, cyclothymia has been described as a chronic subsyndromal mood disorder. It is distinguished from BAD in terms of duration and severity (i.e., shorter duration and less severe symptoms). Studies of individuals diagnosed with BAD, however, indicate that in about a third of the cases there was a history of cyclothymia.
Chronic, mild bipolar disorder in which the patient demonstrates mild mood swings with periods of symptom-free intervals for several months.
A psychological disorder characterized by chronic mood swings between mild depression and excitement (hypomania) over a period of at least 2 years. The mood changes are abrupt and unpredictable and cause considerable distress. Cyclothymia is similar to bipolar disorder except that the moods are less extreme. In some cases, the disorder progresses into persistent depression or bipolar disorder. Long-term treatment with mood stabilizing medication, such as lithium, and psychotherapy is helpful.
The occurrence of marked swings of mood from cheerfulness to misery. These fluctuations are not as great as those of manic-depressive psychosis. They usually represent a personality disorder, for which psychotherapy is sometimes helpful.
The state characterized by extreme swings of mood between elation and depression.
There exists a less severe variant of bipolar disorder, distinguished by the occurrence of alternating states of hypomania and comparatively milder depressive episodes.
A distinctive trait of one’s personality is often exemplified by pronounced fluctuations in mood, transitioning from a state of cheerfulness, energy, and sociability to periods of gloominess, lethargy, and social withdrawal. These mood swings can endure for extended durations, spanning days or even months, and may exhibit a recurring pattern. This intricate interplay of emotions underscores the complexity of human psychology and highlights the importance of understanding and managing such emotional variability.
An emotional state characterized by extreme mood swings, with the individual alternating between intense excitement and profound depression.