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Bipolar Disorder/bi-polar vs. cyclothymic
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Question
I was diagnosed as being bi-polar since I was about 17. I am now 32. My current doctor says that I have "cyclothymic disorder". I've done some research and fit a majority of the profile, but does this mean that I am not bi-polar or is cyclothymic disorder just a more discriptive name beneath the big bi-polar umbrella? Your help is appreciated.
Cyclothymic disorder is included in the bipolar disorder 'collective', which has been categorized generally in the DSM-IV-TR section for mood disorders. Bipolar can be type I (basics: must have had at least one full manic episode meeting the required criteria and same thing goes regarding the major depressive episode requirement) type II (basics: only hypomanic episodes with full major depressive episodes that satisfy the needed criteria), Cyclothymic disorder (basics: chronic fluctuating mood disturbance involving periods of hypomanic symptoms, and numerous periods of depressive symptoms; the number, severity, pervasiveness, or duration of both hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms are insufficient for criteria needed to diagnose symptoms as part of manic, hypomanic, or major depressive episodes), & Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (basics: disorders with bipolar features that do not meet criteria for any specific bipolar disorder - examples; recurrent hypomanic episodes without intercurrent depressive symptoms, a manic or mixed episode superimposed on delusional disorder, residual schizophrenia, or psychotic disorder not otherwise specified.)
Since I have not had the opportunity to speak with anyone who had been diagnosed as cyclothymic, I thought I'd ask you what meds you take, what are the symptoms you experience most often & what do people from work/friends/family notice - if any at all. I'd appreciate a little 'insider trading' information exchange - like I said, I haven't run across anyone with this particular type, so anything you can tell me about your experience is going to add a human element to the med-technical research on the subject.
Let me know if I can help you any further
Related Articles
- What is Bipolar II Disorder - Bipolar 2 Disorder - Bipolar Type 2
- Diagnosing a Hypomanic Episode – DSM Criteria for Diagnosing a Hypomanic Episode
- Diagnosing a Mixed Episode – DSM Criteria for Diagnosing a Mixed Episode
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Diagnosis - How Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Diagnosed
- Diagnosing Cyclothymic Disorder – DSM Criteria for Diagnosing Cyclothymic Disorder
Answers by Expert:
Jennifer
Expertise
I am available to answer questions of a general nature about bipolar disorder, provide online resources that address bipolar disorder in a more in-depth manner and sources to serve as a starting point for those looking for substantial information on the illness from a healthcare professional approach. I am not a doctor or a psychiatrist, my background is based in personal experience and extensive reading in my own process of understanding my diagnosis. I can also take questions that deal with the social issues surrounding bipolar disorder such as relationships; coping for family, friends, and the patient; marriage, choosing to start a family and related. Answers to questions of a legal nature will provide general information but anyone with a serious legal problem should consult an attorney licensed to practice in their jurisdiction.
Experience
I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder type II in 2000; as a SSI beneficiary, have experience and knowledge of the limitations and processes involved with the program; I understand the moods, the feelings, the worries, the doubts, and a lot more that there's not enough room to express - from the personal experiences of being bipolar. I have first-hand experience with the challenges of returning to college following hospitalizations and various combinations of medications that were tried before my doctor and I finally arrived at the most effective medication program for my treatment. My family and I have learned so much about each other in the process of dealing with the highs and lows that followed my diagnosis. I've had relationships with someone who also is bipolar and someone that is not - romantic relationships are no easier on either side! I feel that many of the ideas and beliefs that people have regarding bipolar disorder and those who have the condition promote the continuation of social stigmas associated with mental illness in general, and after learning from others with bipolar disorder, hope to guide others who may be trying to navigate the government health care system,& share information on other possible means of obtaining assistance with the cost of medications and/or mental health services and limited financial assistance programs for meeting basic living expenses for qualified individuals, dealing with problems from or with family & loved ones, co-occurring substance abuse problems, medications and side-effects (and when it feels like nothing will work, or why it's not helping the situation to ask whether or not a patient has taken their 'meds' when they seem hostile or moody to those around them).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.A. in Liberal Arts and will earn my J.D. upon completion of the Spring 2011 term after which I will be preparing to take the multi-state bar exam.
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