Cyclothymic Disorder: A Sign of Bipolar to Come

With the multiple types of depressive disorders that exist one must be aware that some kinds are almost warnings of other things to come. Cyclothymic disorder is one such precursor. Between fifteen and fifty percent of those who suffer from this disorder are highly likely to develop bipolar disorder. Like other types of depression it is a mental illness and like bipolar disorder it has both the highs of mania and the lows of depression. But since neither of them last long nor are particularly difficult to deal with at this early stage they are not called bipolar disorder. However, cyclothymic disorder is classified as a chronic condition with symptoms that alternate erratically. Being less severe than bipolar disorder does not mean that it is not serious or that cyclothymic disorder should go untreated.

It can begin in the late teens or early adulthood. Unlike most types of depression this one does not favor women to a high percentage. It is almost equal in which sex it effects with only the slightest leaning to the feminine side. For someone to be effected with cyclothymic disorder there is usually a close relative who is bipolar. As well, it is not uncommon for it to be obvious that there is family abuse of drugs and alcohol. This action is highly discouraged for the sufferer of cyclothymic disorder. Drugs and alcohol will not help the situation but are guaranteed to complicate the disorder and disrupt treatment. It is also very dangerous to mix prescribed medications with illicit drugs or alcohol.

Someone who is suffering from cyclothymic disorder will not have severe symptoms. They are known to be much milder than many who suffer with other disorders. Yet, they are still a problem in daily life. Like any depression they must be treated since leaving them untouched can make life even more difficult. That means seeing a health care provider who will then make arrangements for their patient to see a good psychiatrist to help with counseling and medication. One is not good without the other. Unlike other types of depression an antidepressant is not necessarily the only answer. Usually mood stabilizers are used here to attempt to deal with the mood swings that can change so abruptly. An antidepressant may also be suggested but that depends completely on the individual sufferer. As well, another medication that will be considered is something to deal with the sleeping difficulties that often accompany cyclothymic disorder.

No mental illness is curable and cyclothymic disorder is not different. But with a good councilor and the right medication daily life can become livable again. The things that were enjoyed become enjoyable again and the things made life seem difficult become no longer the only things that one sees. Someone who sufferers from cyclothymic disorder can cope as long as they continue to take their medication, even when they feel good, and make sure that they keep their appointment with their councilor no matter how bright or dreary their day has been.

More articles on depression can be found at http://4everyonegoodhealth.com/elderly_depression-noXphp/index.php, http://4everyonegoodhealth.com/depression_basic_php/index.php, and http://4everyonegoodhealth.com/Depression/index.html.

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