Although its symptoms are comparatively milder than those associated with bipolar I and II disorders, cyclothymia can still significantly disrupt your life. At WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland, our skilled mental health professionals are dedicated to providing expert treatments for cyclothymia and bipolar disorder. Through the application of advanced therapies and carefully selected medications, we aim to stabilize your mood swings and enable you to lead a fulfilling life. We extend our exceptional services through telehealth for patients residing in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Michigan, and Florida. Get in touch with our office or request an appointment online today.
Cyclothymia, also known as cyclothymic disorder, represents a less severe manifestation of bipolar disorder. It involves shifts between euphoria and depression, although the fluctuations are not as pronounced as those observed in bipolar disorders I and II. Cyclothymia typically entails episodes of hypomania, characterized by heightened energy and excitement, followed by mild to moderate depression. While periods of relative stability might occur between mood swings, the repercussions of these oscillations can significantly impact your daily functioning.
The symptoms of cyclothymia can vary depending on whether you are experiencing a hypomanic or depressive phase. These symptoms might include:
If you can relate to these symptoms, WCWCW provides professional diagnosis and expert treatment for cyclothymia.
Diagnosing cyclothymia requires a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation conducted by the experienced clinicians at WCWCW, who carefully assess your condition to differentiate it from other mental health disorders. The diagnostic criteria for cyclothymia typically involve multiple episodes of hypomania and depression over a minimum period of two years (or one year for children and adolescents). The intervals of mood stability between swings last no more than two months, and the condition significantly impacts both work and home life.
Treatment for cyclothymia at WCWCW may involve various forms of talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Potential talk therapies might include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT), psychoeducation, and supportive psychotherapy. Additionally, your clinician might recommend specific medications such as mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium, valproate, carbamazepine) or antipsychotic medication (e.g., haloperidol, quetiapine, risperidone) to help manage your symptoms.
Furthermore, medication to improve sleep or reduce anxiety levels might be prescribed as needed. With these comprehensive treatments, the frequency of your hypomanic and depressive episodes can be reduced, allowing you to regain control of your life.
Our specialists at WCWCW in Bethesda, Maryland, are dedicated to providing the supportive care required to overcome the challenges posed by cyclothymia. Reach out to our office or request an appointment online today. We ensure the same high-quality service through telehealth for patients residing in Maryland, DC, Virginia, Michigan, and Florida.
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