The disorder can also be confused with borderline or depression, psychiatrists point out
Periods of depression-like sadness followed by phases of intense euphoria are common symptoms for those suffering from bipolar disorder. However, between the daily mood swings and a more serious picture of bipolar disorder, there is a illness milder and less known: cyclothymia.
“This disease is a mild form of bipolar disorder, it is part of its spectrum,” explains Dr. Lucas Huhn Firmino, head of the emergency room psychiatric of the State Public Employees Hospital. “It’s a disorder in which the patient has fluctuations, not just sadness, like depression, and not just excitement, like anxiety. It’s serious, but less so than bipolar disorder.”
He points out that both men and women are affected, but the diagnosis is more common in women and most cases are noticed between the ages of 20 and 40. “The diagnosis is more common in adulthood, although symptoms appear in childhood and adolescence,” he continues.
According to Elton Kanomata, a psychiatrist at Albert Einstein Israelite HospitalCyclothymia is rare, affecting between 0.5% and 1% of the population. However, he warns against underestimation, both among people whose mood swings do not affect their personal lives much, and due to misdiagnosis of borderline.
Treatment for both disorders can be similar, using mood regulators (in lower doses for cyclothymia) combined with therapy. But Kanomata clarifies that, in most cases, the patient affected by cyclothymia manages to rebalance the condition without the aid of drugs, simply by going to the hospital. psychologist and a good routine, with sleep regulated, physical activities and a diet rich in nutrients.
Another important point is to avoid alcohol and other drugs. “These substances are psychoactive, so they can in themselves influence mood swings,” says Kanomata, who recommends stopping use for at least a month to get a more consistent diagnosis.
Understand the differences
- Bipolarity: In bipolar disorder, mood swings are more intense and longer lasting. The swings tend to be more damaging, with more intense depression and episodes of mania (euphoria and excitement).
- Borderline: This is a personality disorder with mood swings. The changes tend to be more brief, with changes even in the same day. It is also characterized by other difficulties in interpersonal interactions, such as problematic relationships and a sense of emptiness.
- Depression: The periods of intense sadness caused by depression are very long and the mood swings are not so obvious; although there are periods of improvement, they are gradual.
As with these diseases, cyclothymia carries a risk of suicide in the saddest phases and impulsive behavior in periods of mania. Therefore, although it is considered a milder disorder, it should not be ignored.
If you are experiencing psychological distress or know someone in this situation, see below where to find help:
Life Evaluation Center (CVV)
If you need immediate help, contact the Centro de Valorização da Vida (CVV), a free emotional support service that provides assistance 24 hours a day. Contact can be made via e-mailfor the chat on the website or by calling 188.
The channel can talk
Initiative created by Unicef to offer listening to adolescents aged 13 to 24. Contact can be made via WhatsappMonday to Friday, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
SUS
The Psychosocial Assistance Centers (Caps) are units of the Unified Health System (SUS) aimed at treating patients with mental disorders. You can search for the Caps directly or go to the nearest Basic Health Unit (UBS) for referral.
Mental Health Map
THE website It brings maps with health units and free psychological assistance initiatives in person and online. It also provides guidance material on mental disorders.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
