Cyclothymia

Living well with cyclothymia

Understanding your own patterns is one of the most useful things you can do to live well with cyclothymia.

Written by Neil Hyde Last checked 1 minute read

On this page
  1. Track your mood
  2. Keep a steady routine
  3. During highs
  4. During lows
  5. Alcohol and drugs
  6. Support

Track your mood

Keep a daily mood diary or app. Over time, you may see what triggers highs and lows, such as poor sleep, stress or the seasons.

Keep a steady routine

Go to bed and get up at the same time, eat regularly and keep some structure to your week. Routine helps keep mood steadier.

During highs

  • pause before big decisions or large purchases
  • protect your sleep, even if you do not feel tired

During lows

  • set small, achievable goals
  • stay connected with people you trust
  • be kind to yourself. Lows pass

Alcohol and drugs

They can make mood swings more intense and harder to predict.

Support

Bipolar UK supports people with cyclothymia as well as bipolar disorder, through peer groups and an online community.

Sources we used

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