All About Bipolar: Cyclothymia and Bipolar NOS

April 25th, 2009

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Bipolar I and Bipolar II are the most common forms of bipolar disorder. The majority of people have never heard of Cyclothymia or Bipolar NOS.

Cyclothymia is similar to Bipolar II, but the symptoms are somewhat milder. Recurring episodes of mild hypomania and/or depression are symptoms of Cyclothymia. Persistent unstable moods and periods of mild depression and mild elation may also be present.

If you have been diagnosed with Cyclothymia, this means that some of the features of bipolar disorder are present but they are not yet severe enough or they have not persisted for an extended period of time. The criteria for a diagnosis of another form of bipolar disorder (Bipolar I or Bipolar II) have not yet been met. It is likely that someone diagnosed with Cyclothymia may eventually be diagnosed with either Bipolar I or Bipolar II.

Cyclothymia is not associated with manic episodes (mania), major depressive episodes, or psychotic episodes. If you have been diagnosed with Cyclothymia and you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor right away. This will warrant the diagnosis of another form of bipolar disorder and reevaluation of treatment.

Bipolar NOS (Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified) is a term used to describe patients who suffer from a form of Bipolar Disorder but do not exactly fit into any of the other categories. This could be the case if someone has symptoms that fit in several categories or for people who do not yet have enough symptoms required to be diagnosed in a more specific category of Bipolar Disorder. It is often used as a catch-all and as an initial diagnosis.

At this time, there isn’t a test for bipolar disorder. A diagnosis involves a detailed analysis of behavioral patterns.

If you have any of these symptoms and believe you could have bipolar disorder, please contact your primary care physician or a mental health professional for evaluation. If you are diagnosed with bipolar II and your symptoms become worse and/or you experience a psychotic episode, contact your doctor immediately for re-evaluation.