Cyclothymia Test

Are you experiencing emotional ups and downs that feel outside the norm? Do the highs and lows of your mood feel unstable and unpredictable, impacting your daily life and relationships? 

If so, know that you are not alone. Cyclothymia is a real, milder (but still very real) form of bipolar disorder. 

Taking the time to understand your mental health is a brave and important step. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You deserve to feel emotionally balanced and in control of your well-being.

How accurate is this quiz?

At Best Therapists, we believe that online mental health quizzes can be an excellent first step towards improving our mental health. Quizzes like this one can educate you and provide opportunities for self-reflection, but note that they are not a substitute for professional assessments and diagnoses.

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Example scenarios

Cyclothymia can look different from person to person. However, seeing examples of how it can play out in real life can be a helpful reminder that you’re not alone. Here are a few ways that cyclothymia can manifest. 

Scenario 1 → The Energetic Artist (Hypomanic Episode)

Sarah, a freelance painter, wakes up feeling on top of the world. Ideas flood her mind, and she rushes to sketch them all down. 

She barely sleeps, fueled by a relentless burst of creativity. Over the next few days, she barely sits still, cleaning her apartment, blasting music, and chatting excitedly with anyone who will listen. She starts several new paintings at once, convinced they'll all be masterpieces. 

However, she becomes easily frustrated when things don't go perfectly, snapping at her friends and ignoring constructive criticism.

Scenario 2 → The Withdrawn Writer (Depressive Episode)

David, a novelist, feels a familiar weight settle on him. The world seems dull, and his usual passion for writing has vanished. He stares at his blank computer screen, overwhelmed by self-doubt. Simple tasks feel impossible, and he isolates himself from friends and family. 

Sleep offers no escape. David's life is filled with restless nights and unrefreshing naps. He withdraws from social media, convinced his unfinished novel is a waste of time.

Scenario 3 → The Up-and-Down Entrepreneur (Mood Swings)

Lisa, a small business owner, experiences emotional rollercoasters. One week, she's brimming with confidence, making bold decisions and pushing her business to new heights. She works tirelessly, networking and brainstorming innovative ideas. The next week, she feels paralyzed by fear and self-doubt, questioning every move. 

Simple tasks become overwhelming, and she struggles to motivate herself. This unpredictable pattern disrupts her business and relationships, leaving her feeling frustrated and confused.

Important Note: These are fictional scenarios and not a diagnostic tool. If you suspect you or someone you know might have cyclothymia, it's important to seek professional help from a mental health professional.