Causes Of Cyclothymic Disorder And Its Impact On Daily Life

07 Jul Causes Of Cyclothymic Disorder And Its Impact On Daily Life

Cyclothymia or cyclothymic disorder often described as a milder yet form of bipolar disorder characterized by frequent swings from hypomania to mild depression.

This condition can last for months or even years, and can quietly disrupt daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being.

According to Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh, a top psychiatrist in Patna Bihar, Cyclothymia is not as severe as bipolar disorder, but its changing moods can make it hard to notice and deal with.

In this blog, we will look at cyclothymic disorder, including its signs, causes, and ways to treat it, to help people understand and manage this mental health issue.

What is Cyclothymic Disorder?

Cyclothymic disorder is a chronic mood disorder characterized by repeated alternating mood switching from hypomania to mild depressive states

Hypomanic episodes involve less severe mood swings than manic episodes, yet they can still significantly impact emotional stability.

People with cyclothymia have mood swings that can be very complicated and unclear. These mood changes can impact their daily life, relationships, and work.

In adults symptoms last at least two years and in children and adolescents for a minimum of one year.

As the symptoms are less than those prominent in bipolar disorder either I or II, very few get diagnosed or in most cases are referred to their moods as part of their personality.

Milder but chronic version of bipolar disorder, cyclothymia has to be properly managed for better emotional health.

Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by numerous periods of both hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that do not meet the full criteria for a hypomanic or major depressive episode.

How Common Is Cyclothymic Disorder? Prevalence and Demographics

Cyclothymic disorder is very rare; it is estimated to be approximately 0.4 to 1 percent of the general population.

Both men and women can have this disorder, but more women tend to seek help than men.

The signs usually show up in late teens or early twenties, but they might not be noticed for a long time.

Most people with cyclothymia would be very unlikely to seek the help of a professional because they do not connect any of their mood changes to a particular diagnosis.

Cyclothymia is a condition that causes mild but constant mood changes. It is often seen as part of a person’s personality or emotional sensitivity.

People with family members who have bipolar disorder or other mood disorders are more likely to have cyclothymia.

Cyclothymic disorder is usually not recognized or is confused with anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders because it develops slowly and lasts a long time.

Cyclothymic Disorder Duration:

It requires mood fluctuations (hypomanic and depressive symptoms) to be present for at least two years in adults (one year in children/adolescents), occurring for at least half the time. During this period, individuals cannot be symptom-free for more than two consecutive months.

Difference Between Cyclothymia And Other Mood Disorders

Below, we have outlined the distinctions between cyclothymia and other major mood disorders, including bipolar I and bipolar II disorders, and depression,  focusing on symptoms, severity, and duration.

Cyclothymic Disorder vs Bipolar

What is the difference between bipolar and cyclothymia? Both diseases can change moods, but cyclothymia and bipolar disorder are more serious.

In bipolar disorder, people can have strong mania or deep depression at any time. Cyclothymia has only milder mood changes.

• Bipolar I involves severe manic episodes, often with psychosis, and major depression, significantly impairing life.
• Bipolar II includes hypomania like cyclothymia but with severe depressive episodes.

In serious manic episodes, a person with bipolar I disorder acts aggressively and recklessly, often needing to go to the hospital.

In bipolar II disorder, major depressive and hypomanic episodes are more serious than cyclothymic mood changes, but they only cause mild manic-like symptoms.

Cyclothymia vs Depression

A cyclothymic episode includes periods of feeling happy followed by times of feeling down.

Major depression includes thoughts of suicide, very low moods, and trouble with daily life. In contrast, someone with cyclothymia sometimes feels low, but these low times are not as long or severe as major depression.

The main difference is that a person with major depression is always feeling low, while someone with cyclothymia has ups and downs in their mood.

Cyclothymia might be seen as a mild form of depression because the mood changes do not involve long-lasting sadness.

However, cyclothymia is thought to be a mix of short low moods and bursts of energy.

Depression involves feeling very low for weeks or months, along with extreme tiredness and a loss of interest in activities.

Major depression can also include thoughts of suicide and severe difficulties in daily life.

Some people think of cyclothymia as mild atypical depression because it does not have the deep and lasting sadness found in major depression.

Cyclothymic Disorder Symptoms

Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by mood changes that go up and down between mild highs and lows.

These changes are not as strong as in bipolar disorder, but they can still cause problems in everyday life, relationships, or jobs.

These mood episodes can last a few weeks, with several changes happening in that time, and they often happen without warning.

What Does Cyclothymic Disorder Look Like?

Imagine someone who frequently experiences noticeable shifts in their energy, mood, and behavior, without these shifts ever reaching extreme levels.

They might seem like a “moody” or “temperamental” person, but the pattern is more consistent and impactful than typical moodiness.

Here’s a breakdown of the two main types of symptoms:

1: Hypomanic Symptoms (the “Highs”)

Individuals experience during hypomanic phase:

• Increased energy and restlessness – An elevated sense of motivation, hyping energizing feelings and activity.
• An inflated self-esteem or confidence – Such a sudden increase of confidence can sometimes overestimate one’s abilities.
• Racing thoughts and excessive talking – resist concentration and slow speech but, essentially, rapid flow of ideas.
• Less need for sleep – some people sleep less but still feel very energetic, unlike those who lack sleep normally.
• Impulsiveness and taking risks – this can include things like spending too much money, engaging in unsafe sexual activities, or acting without thinking about what might happen.

2: Depressive Symptoms (the “Lows”)

When the mood falls into depression:

• Low energy and chronic fatigue – A constant reality of exhaustion that feels incredibly poor for anyone just carrying out their daily activities.
• Feelings of sadness and hopelessness – A very strong feeling of emotional distress even without a reason.
• Difficulty in concentrating or deciding – With mere difficulty in foci, memory, and problem solving.
• Sleep problems (not being able to sleep or sleeping too much) – Some people find it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, while others sleep a lot but still feel tired.
• Loss of interest in daily activities – This means losing motivation, which can lead to not wanting to do hobbies, hang out with friends, or take care of responsibilities.

What Causes Cyclothymic Disorder?

Though the precise cause of cyclothymic disorder is still unknown, the researchers believe that genetic inheritance combined with brain chemistry and environmental aspects holds much of the role.

1: Genetic

Is cyclothymic disorder genetic? History in the family of a person regarding bipolar disorder, depression, or other mood disorders increases the possible occurrence of cyclothymia.

An individual having first-degree relatives (parents or siblings) with a diagnosis of mood disorders is at higher risk.

2: Brain Chemistry

Apparent neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine can influence mood maintenance.

Another possible factor is the failure in handling mood; this might come from dysfunction in the limbic structure which controls the speech of the brain.

3: Environmental Triggers

Some traumatic experiences which may include; abusive childhood, neglect, or loss of a loved one, could trigger cyclothymia states.

Chronic high stress level, substance use, or unstable living conditions may also increase their probability.

Significant changes in life, such as career shifts, relationship disturbances, or financial struggles, can act as triggers.

4: Personal Traits

People who are very emotionally reactive and have impulsivity might also differ in the frequency with which they experience cyclothymic disorder.

Perfectionists or individuals with problems controlling their emotions might also have more extreme emotional swings.

It’s important to remember that it’s rarely a single cause.

Instead, it’s generally a complex interaction of these genetic, biological, and environmental factors that leads to the development of cyclothymic disorder.

How Does Cyclothymia Affect Daily Life And Relationships?

The ever-changing moods in cyclothymia can make keeping up with relationships pretty hard.

The emotional inconsistency will cause hassle headaches for the person suffering from the disease.

Influence of the Hypomanic Phases

They would tend to be overtalkative, has an impulse control disorder and is socially active during hypomanic episodes.

The person suffering would do something risky like overspending, an impulse spike, or letting unnecessary risks in relationships go by.

Some are so intense that-these feelings apply all the more pressure to a partner, family, and friends.

Impact on the Depression Phases

Coming into depression, one tends to shut oneself out of the outside world and this gradually leads to emotional alienation from the family.

Few people find it difficult to talk as low energy levels are accompanied by irritability, which leads to misunderstandings in some cases.

It is difficult for some people since they could even think that they are worthless so that they cannot seek help from people.

Challenges of Partner, Friends, and Family

Familial or loving moods tend to be considerately temperamental even making it impossible for a loved one to comprehend and develop themselves into the emotional state of the individual.

Partners are either left confounded, psychologically drained, or not sure how to matt up to this state of their loved ones.

Mellow out friends and family members might in some moods consider the change of moods as personal character flaws but not symptoms of an ailment.

Relationships Enhancement Ways

• Open Communication – Honest about the emotions will let the person know what is going on with their loved ones in reality.
• Counseling together – Couples or family counseling has the ability to reinforce their ties and build strategies to combat difficult times.
• Emotional Support – Educating people about cyclothymia would create a much more enriched environmental context in which loved ones can definite support and understanding.
• Managing expectations – Setting realistic expectations about mood swings can reduce frustration and improve relationship stability.

Diagnosis of Cyclothymic Disorder

Diagnosis of cyclothymic disorder is neither simple nor easy because the mood swings are less severe than bipolar disorder and persist for prolonged periods.

Proper diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation by a psychiatrist or mental health professional.

Key Steps in Diagnosis:

Long-Term Symptoms of Assessment

There should be two years of mood swings in an adult, and one of a child or adolescent.

Symptoms should be sufficiently common but mild enough not to warrant the attention of bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder.

Detailed Medical and Psychological History

A mental health professional will take a detailed history of mood patterns, behavior, and emotional responses over time.

Patients may be asked about family history, as mood disorders often have a genetic component.

Mood Tracking and Self-Reports

These could be indicated to keep mood logs through personal diaries or online mood-tracking apps.

Family members, close friends, or partners can provide additional information into the behavior changes.

Psychological Assessment and Forms

Although there doesn’t exist a laboratory test for diagnosing cyclothymia because this testimony brings out a summation of findings using standardized mood disorder questionnaires.

Exclusion of Other Disorders

It is diagnosed in case the swings don’t fulfill the criteria of major depression, mania, or bipolar disorder.

The assessment is conducted, allowing symptoms not to be clung to substance use, medical, or other mental health disorders.

Correct diagnosis is very important for effective treatment and management of the condition in the long run.

Cyclothymic Disorder Treatment

Can cyclothymia be cured? Despite the fact that cyclothymic disorder has no cure, it is managed through therapy, medications, and lifestyle adjustments.

Good treatments aim to keep mood steady, control symptoms, and lower the chance of getting worse bipolar disorder.

The main ways how to treat cyclothymic disorder:

1: Psychotherapy

This is a crucial component of treatment and helps individuals understand, cope with, and manage their mood fluctuations.

Several types of therapy are beneficial:

a) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

• Helps the patients to identify negative thought processes and to be equipped with coping strategies.
• Encourages emotional regulation and impedes impetuosity during hypomania.

b) Interpersonal Therapy (IPT):

• Work on improving one’s relationships and communication skills.
• Assist individuals in coping with the effect that the changes in mood have on their social surroundings and building helpful networks.

c) Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):

• A variant of CBT, DBT emphasizes coping with psychological problems through change while also promoting acceptance.
• It helps individuals learn to tolerate negative emotions and improve interpersonal skills.

d) Psychoeducation:

• That is essential: to educate the cyclothymic patient and his family about cyclothymia and its characteristics.
• Awareness will facilitate a person’s self-management and reduce stigma against mood disorders.

2: Medication

While no medications are specifically FDA-approved for cyclothymic disorder, doctors often prescribe medications used to treat bipolar disorder to help stabilize mood and prevent the extreme highs and lows.

These may include:

a) Mood Stabilizers:

Lithium or another kind of mood-stabilizing drug helps to stabilize the mood swings and reduce the extreme changes.

b) Atypical Antipsychotics:

Medications like quetiapine (Seroquel) may be used, sometimes as monotherapy or in conjunction with a mood stabilizer, particularly for severe mood instability.

c) Antidepressants:

• Very cautious because they may initiate hypomania in certain patients.
• SSRIs may sometimes be used to help with the depression.

d) Antipsychotic Medications:

Worst situations may be treated with low doses of antipsychoticic medications such as quetiapine, or olanzapine.

Caution for Cyclothymic disorder medication

Unlike bipolar disorders, cyclothymic patients may not be treated with medications; instead, green companions can take full therapy and lifestyle changes to ease symptoms.

Medication will be under the strict observation of a psychiatrist and thus couldn’t cause mood instability.

3: Lifestyle Modifications and Self-Care

These play a significant role in managing cyclothymia and improving overall well-being:

a) Regular Exercise:

• It helps to stabilize mood, lowers anxiety, and enhances wellness.
• For example, one can walk, do yoga, or strength train to maintain emotional well-being.

b) Sleeping Regularly:

• A steady sleep pattern is necessary for emotional smoothening.
• One can improve sleep quality by avoiding screen time before sleeping and drinking little caffeine.

c) Balanced Diet:

• Such foods include whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, which nurture brain function.
• Reducing on process food and sugars as well as caffeine can hence help fight mood swings.

d) No Alcohol No Caffeine No Drugs:

• Stimulants like caffeine and alcohol worsen mood instability.
• So one avoids substance abuse but reduces those unpredictable mood switches.

e) Stress Management Skills:

With the help of meditation, deep breathing, and journaling, for example, it is possible for an individual to cope with emotional highs and lows.

How To Live With Someone Who Has Cyclothymia?

Living with someone who has cyclothymia can be challenging, as their mood swings, though less severe than full bipolar disorder, can still impact daily life and relationships significantly.

Patience, understanding, and proactive strategies are key.

Here’s a comprehensive guide:

1. Self-awareness: Keeping a Mood Journal

This can help one to identify triggers as well as patterns of behaviour.

Discovering early symptoms of either hypomanic or depressive incidents can help prevent them.

2. Building a Strong Support System

It may be helpful to surround oneself by understanding friends, family, or support groups to achieve these ends.

Counseling and mental health forums could also provide encouragement and coping strategies.

3. Stress Reduction as well as Relaxing Techniques

Such mindfulness exercises alleviate the norms of emotional difference through meditation or pure yoga.

Creative outlets like painting, writing, or music can serve as therapeutic techniques.

4. Sticking to Prescribed Treatment Regimens

Consistent attendance at therapy and prescribed medical follows boosts emotional stability.

Do not self-medicate or suddenly withdraw from prescribed drugs to prevent worsening symptoms.

5. Acceptance and Adaptation

Hence cyclothymic disorder means learning to accept the emotional ups and downs and adapt positively to them.

Patience and motivation are keys to this long journey toward stability, and taking the time it needs hopefully will help each person to have patience with himself or herself.

Conclusion

Cyclothymic disorder, while often less severe in its individual mood episodes than bipolar I or II, presents a significant challenge due to its chronic and fluctuating nature.

Knowing how long do cyclothymic disorder episodes last is important.

It is not a temporary issue but a long-lasting pattern of mood changes.

According to the Cyclothymic disorder DSM-5, it must be present for at least two years in adults and one year in children and teens.

Early diagnosis and treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and strong social support can help in the management of symptoms.

It may not leave patients as symptomatically affected as bipolar disorder, but it affects them much.

People with mood swings can get help from professionals to feel better and have more stable mental health.

Talking to a mental health expert, like Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh (psychiatrist in Patna Bihar), can help you get the right diagnosis and a treatment plan that suits you.

This can help you manage cyclothymia and lead a more balanced emotional life.

FAQs

1: How Long Does Cyclothymic Disorder Last?

Cyclothymic disorder is a long-term psychosomatic illness that may potentially last for years or maybe life.

Cyclic mood changes, if untreated, are bound to go on forever, but well-treated cyclothymia can see moods stabilize in therapy and lifestyle management.

Early detection of cyclothymia is very important for prognosis.

2: How to Help Someone With Cyclothymic Disorder?

The process of helping a cyclothymic patient includes acceptance, patience, and continuous encouragement.

Never discourage them from obtaining professional help, and encourage them to follow a healthy regimen during treatment.

Never judge their behavior or mood changes: offer comfort if needed.

Whatever else can be mentioned, it is far more important for anyone trying to reach this person to be there for him and be educated.

3: Is Cyclothymic Disorder A Type Of Bipolar?

Yes, cyclothymic disorder is the milder, chronic variant of bipolar disorder.

Within the realm of cyclothymia, one continuously alternates between acclimates of hypomania and mild depression.

Less severe than those associated with Bipolar I or II, however, they still impair daily functioning.

Psychiatric classifications deem it to be on the bipolar spectrum.

4: Is Cyclothymic Disorder Rare?

Cyclothymic disorder is uncommon but is by no means rare.

The incidence is estimated in the range of 0.4-1%, with a higher number of cases going undiagnosed.

The symptoms may be frequently thought of as personality quirks or behaviors in the case of stressful events; this needs to change for an early diagnosis and treatment.

5: Is Cyclothymic Disorder Hereditary?

Yes. There is a genetic association with cyclothymic disorder, though one should remember that it can go along with mood disorders in families.

Should close relatives develop either bipolar disorder or depression, the chances of any given individual developing it are thus somewhat increased.

However, to then go on and say that an occurrence is determined solely by genetics would be an error. Other environmental and psychological factors come into play.

6: Is Cyclothymic Disorder a Mood Disorder?

Cyclothymic disorder is recognized as a mood disorder within the DSM-5.

It is a chronic course characterized by mild mood elevation and lowering that affects people in their daily lives.

These fluctuations, albeit mild, can accumulate to an extent that they cause functional impairment with time.

It has to be treated on a long-term basis, as are all other mood disorders.

7: Is Cyclothymic Disorder a Depressive Disorder?

Though bearing depressive symptoms, cyclothymic disorder is not simply cataloged as a depressive disorder.

It involves mood swings of the hypomanic and depressive types and is thus placed in the bipolar spectrum.

Treatment is also somewhat different from that of an ordinary depression.

Hence, it is important here to recognize this difference for proper diagnosis.