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Cyclothymic disorder - Overview

Alternative Names

Cyclothymia

Definition of Cyclothymic disorder:

Cyclothymic disorder is a mild form of bipolar disorder in which a person has mood swings from mild or moderate depression to euphoria and excitement, but stays connected to reality.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of cyclothymic disorder is unknown. Although the changes in mood are irregular and quick, the mood swings are far less severe than in bipolar disorder (manic depressive illness). Unlike in bipolar disorder, periods of hypomania often do not become actual mania.

References

McClellan J, Kowatch R, Findling RL; Work Group on Quality Issues. Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with bipolar disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2007;46:107-125.

Miklowitz DJ, Otto MV, Frank E, et al. Psychosocial treatments for bipolar depression: a 1-year randomized trial from the Systematic Treatment Enhancement Program. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2007;64:419-426.

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