What is the difference between dysthymia and Cyclothymia?

Dysthymia is a mild, chronic form of depression, while cyclothymia is a mild case of bipolar disorder and involves cycling between mild depression and mild mania. Both have genetic, biological, and psychosocial causes, and both are treated with medication and therapy.

How does caffeine affect bipolar disorder?

Avoiding too much caffeine may be helpful for getting good sleep, which is especially important for people with bipolar disorder. When someone with bipolar disorder is feeling depressed, extra caffeine may temporarily cause a boost in energy, and possibly mood. The problem is that caffeine can disrupt sleep.

What happens when a bipolar person drinks alcohol?

Alcohol is known to intensify bipolar disorder due to its sedating effects. It acts similarly to some medications, risking feelings of depression with each swig of alcohol. Alcohol also greatly increases the severity of mania, which many who suffer from bipolar find extremely pleasurable.

Does Magnesium Help bipolar disorder?

Magnesium: Magnesium — found in whole grains, beans, and dark leafy vegetables like spinach — has been shown to have an effect similar to lithium, the most common bipolar medication. Upping your intake of magnesium, a natural mood stabilizer, may decrease your need for medication.

What is a mixed state?

A mixed affective state, formerly known as a mixed-manic or mixed episode, has been defined as a state wherein features unique to both depression and mania—such as episodes of despair, doubt, anguish, rage or homicidal ideation, suicidal ideation, splitting, racing thoughts, sensory overload, pressure of activity, and …

Why my moods fluctuate so much?

In many cases, shifts in mood are a symptom of a more serious health issue. They can occur due to mental health conditions, hormonal changes, or substance use problems, among other things.

What happens if you stop taking medication for cyclothymia?

Cyclothymia is a chronic condition that will require lifelong treatment. If you stop taking medications — even during periods of remission — your symptoms will return. Because cyclothymia may develop into bipolar disorder, it is crucial that you receive appropriate treatments. Alcohol and drug use may increase your symptoms as well.

How do you diagnose cyclothymic depression?

Diagnosis. Your doctor or other health care provider must determine if you have cyclothymia, bipolar I or II disorder, depression, or another condition that may be causing your symptoms. To help pinpoint a diagnosis for your symptoms, you’ll likely have several exams and tests, which generally include: Physical exam.

How do you deal with cyclothymic disorder?

Here are some ways to cope with cyclothymia: Learn about the disorder. Join a support group. Stay focused on your goals. Find healthy outlets. Learn relaxation and stress management.

Can cyclothymia cause bipolar disorder later in life?

However, some people with cyclothymia will develop bipolar I or bipolar II disorder later in life. What Are the Symptoms of Cyclothymia? People with cyclothymia usually experience many weeks of low-level depression followed by an episode of mild mania that lasts several days.