Symptoms of Cyclothymia
Symptoms of cyclothymia revolve around alternating periods of elevated and low mood, both of which are milder than those seen in bipolar I or II disorder. Despite being less extreme, these mood swings are persistent and disruptive. People with cyclothymia may feel emotionally unstable, struggling to maintain consistency in their thoughts, behaviours, and relationships.
Hypomanic Symptoms
During hypomanic phases, individuals often feel:
Euphoric, overly confident, or unusually energetic
Restless or impulsive, engaging in risky behaviours like overspending, excessive talking, or taking on too many projects
Decreased need for sleep, sometimes sleeping only a few hours a night without feeling tired
Irritable or impatient with others
Easily distracted or mentally “racing” with ideas
These symptoms may feel enjoyable or productive, but they can lead to poor decision-making, social tension, or workplace issues.
Depressive Symptoms
During depressive periods, individuals may experience:
Sadness, hopelessness, or emotional numbness
Low energy, fatigue, or reduced motivation
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
Changes in appetite and weight
Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
Though not as severe as major depressive episodes, these symptoms still affect day-to-day functioning and can lead to isolation or burnout.
Mood Shifts | Symptoms of Cyclothymia
One of the most challenging aspects of cyclothymia is its unpredictability:
Moods can shift with no clear trigger
Changes may be rapid or gradual
Some individuals may cycle between moods within the same day
Emotional Instability
This constant fluctuation can result in:
Unstable relationships due to perceived unreliability or volatility
Difficulty with long-term commitments or routines
Chronic self-doubt, confusion, or embarrassment over one’s behaviour
In children and adolescents, symptoms may include:
Frequent moodiness or irritability
Risk-taking behaviours
Poor school performance
In summary, symptoms of cyclothymia involve alternating, subthreshold mood states that disrupt emotional balance. While these symptoms may seem mild compared to other mood disorders, their frequency and chronic nature make cyclothymia a significant mental health concern.
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