What it is
Some people with cyclothymia later develop bipolar disorder.
Talking therapies, learning to recognise mood changes, and sometimes medicines can help.
Common signs
- Periods of low mood and lack of energy
- Periods of feeling very happy, energetic or irritable
- Mood changes that come and go over at least 2 years
- Rarely having stable mood for long
How it is usually diagnosed
- Assessment by a GP or mental health professional
- A mood diary over time
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Mood diaries
- Assessment and therapy letters
- Your medicines
Questions to ask your doctor
- How is this different from bipolar disorder?
- Would therapy or medicine help me?
- Which signs should make me seek help sooner?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Thoughts of suicide or self-harm: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.