Cyclothymia: How to Recognize and Manage It

Everyone experiences ups and downs, but when your mood swings from highs to lows feel like a constant cycle, cyclothymia may be the culprit. This lesser-known mood disorder can make it challenging to maintain stable relationships, perform consistently at work, or feel in control of your emotions. 

Recognizing the signs is key to managing its impact and regaining stability.

Psychiatric specialist Wendy Ann Reiss, MSN, PMHNP-BC, understands how cyclothymia can affect your well-being. With her extensive experience in psychiatric care, she offers compassionate guidance to help you identify and manage your symptoms effectively.

What is cyclothymia?

Cyclothymia causes constant emotional highs and lows for two or more years. While these mood swings are less severe than those associated with bipolar disorder, they can still interfere with your quality of life.

Recognizing the signs of cyclothymia

Cyclothymia often goes unnoticed because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for normal mood changes. However, the mood shifts in cyclothymia follow a consistent pattern that includes:

Emotional highs (hypomanic symptoms)

You may feel overly energetic, talkative, or optimistic. During these times, you might take on multiple projects, experience restlessness, or need less sleep than usual.

Emotional lows (mild depressive symptoms)

You might experience feelings of sadness, fatigue, or irritability. These periods can also lead to losing interest in activities you once enjoyed or dealing with low self-esteem.

How cyclothymia differs from other mood disorders

The main difference between cyclothymia and bipolar disorder is the intensity of mood swings. While bipolar disorder involves severe depressive or manic episodes, cyclothymia features less intense mood fluctuations.

Another distinction is that cyclothymia tends to persist over time, often for years, without significant breaks in symptoms.

When to seek help for cyclothymia

If your mood swings feel overwhelming or make it challenging to maintain a stable routine, seeking professional support can help you regain control. A psychiatric specialist like Wendy can help you understand your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.

Managing cyclothymia

Treatment for cyclothymia often includes a combination of approaches, such as:

Talk therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you identify and manage triggers while building healthier coping strategies.

Medications

Medications like mood stabilizers or antidepressants may help regulate your emotions.

Lifestyle adjustments

Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep habits can improve your mood stability over time.

Our practice provides a safe, supportive space to explore these options and adjust them for your needs.

Take control of your mood 

Cyclothymia doesn’t have to define you. If you’re experiencing ongoing mood swings or suspect cyclothymia, contact our team today. Call our office or use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment. Telepsychiatry appointments are also available.