Cyclothymic disorder: is considered a mild form of Bipolar Disorder in that the difference between a manic and depressive episode are not quite as drastic. For a diagnosis of Cyclothymic Disorder, you will have experienced symptoms for at least two years with no more than two months between episodes.
Bipolar Not Otherwise Specified: this diagnosis is for people experiencing the fluctuating mania and depression of Bipolar Disorder but without fitting into any of the formal categories. Rapid-cycling Bipolar Disorder falls into this category. This is when you have alternating mood cycles but they don’t last long enough to meet the criteria for Bipolar I or II. Other reasons for this diagnosis may include a neurological cause for your symptoms, periods of psychosis with a prior schizophrenia diagnosis, or only experiencing hypomania without depressive episodes.
Bipolar Disorder is a common co-occurring mental health condition among people experiencing eating disorders. The fluctuating moods and emotional states of Bipolar Disorder may lead to harmful behaviors such as excessive calorie restriction, binge-purge cycles, or other disordered eating habits. It can be difficult to spot the symptoms of an eating disorder in someone who has untreated Bipolar Disorder because they may go away for a time, such as during a manic period. Likewise, when more evident and concerning behaviors are at the forefront, covert disordered eating habits may not be obvious.
No matter what kind of bipolar disorder you or a loved one is dealing with, recovery is possible. The right bipolar disorder treatment can provide relief and help you learn to manage your symptoms.