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Tuesday, October 13, 2009 bleumoon78 asks

Q: If my severe mood swings are more every hour or so would that be considered bipolar?

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10/14/09 11:02pm

Hi, Bleumoon. Assuming bipolar is your diagnosis, you would be considered an ultradian cycler, someone who cycles extremely rapidly. "Rapid-cyclers" typically experience four or more complete mood swings a year. You are obviously a lot more rapid. Unfortunately, there has been little research into your condition, other than the obvious observation that rapid-cyclers need to work extra hard at normalizing their environment - from avoiding and managing stress to watching your diet (caffeine and high sugars are a no-no).

 

A close cousin of rapid-cycling is mixed states, where you are literally up and down at the same time. I experience mixed states and often abrupt changes in mood. My situation is not exactly the same as yours, but coming from where I am coming from, when you are depressed you know the depression won't last long. You need to keep reminding yourself of that when you are depressed.

 

Wish I could help you more, but I hope this little bit can get your started in the right direction -

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