Cyclothymic Disorder is characterized by which description?

• A. A mild form of bipolar type 2 lasting at least 2 years with fluctuations between hypomania and minor depression.
• B. A single depressive episode.
• C. No impairment.
• D. Onset in adulthood only.

Answer: (A)

Cyclothymic disorder reflects a chronic mood instability on the bipolar spectrum, with numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that do not meet full criteria for mania/hypomania or for a major depressive episode. To meet criteria, these fluctuating symptoms must persist for at least two years in adults (one year in youths) and cause distress or impairment, with symptoms present most of the time and not staying mood-free for long.

This pattern fits best because it describes a milder, long-lasting alternation between hypomanic-like states and depressive states, rather than a single episode of depression or complete absence of impairment. It’s not simply a single depressive episode, and it can begin in adolescence or adulthood, not strictly in adulthood.