Cylothymic Disorder: A Review
Introduction
Cyclothymic disorder (CD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent cycles of mood swings and changes in energy and activity levels, which are usually of shorter duration and less severe than those seen in bipolar disorder. It is estimated to affect approximately 1.5% of the general population, with a higher prevalence in those with a family history of bipolar disorder (Fiedorowicz, et al., 2018). The purpose of this review is to summarize current understandings of CD, its diagnosis, and the available treatments.
Diagnostic Criteria
CD is classified as a mood disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). According to the DSM-5, CD is characterized by a period of at least two years of mild hypomanic (elevated mood) and mild depressive (low mood) symptoms that alternate and overlap. At least one of these symptoms must be present for at least half of the time during this two-year period. Additionally, the individual must not have experienced a manic or major depressive episode during this time, and the symptoms must cause significant distress and/or impairment in functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Treatment
The primary treatment for CD is psychotherapy, specifically cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is an evidence-based psychosocial intervention that focuses on helping individuals identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviors that may be contributing to the symptoms of CD (Bouffard, et al., 2019). Additionally, medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants may be prescribed to help reduce symptoms of CD. It is important to note that while medications may be helpful in reducing symptoms, they are not a cure and should be used in combination with psychotherapy for optimal outcomes (Fiedorowicz, et al., 2018).
Conclusion
CD is a mental health condition characterized by persistent cycles of mood swings and changes in energy and activity levels. While the symptoms of CD are usually shorter and less severe than those seen in bipolar disorder, they can still be distressing and impair functioning. The primary treatment for CD is psychotherapy, specifically CBT, in combination with medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants. Further research is needed to better understand CD and to develop more effective treatments.
References
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Bouffard, L. R., Bhatia, A., & Singh, A. B. (2019). Cognitive behavioral therapy for Cyclothymic Disorder. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 88(3), 128-132. https://doi.org/10.1159/000495904
Fiedorowicz, J. G., Reich, D., & Solomon, D. A. (2018). Cyclothymic disorder: Clinical features, course, and treatment. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 26(3), 212-225. https://doi.org/10.1097/HRP.0000000000000219