SPOTTING THE SIGNS

If you’re concerned that you or a friend might be struggling with cyclothymia, these are the key symptoms. Go and see your GP if you’re worried

• Low mood

You might feel anxious or low, but not long enough for it to be classified as clinical depression. Usually, two weeks is seen as the basis for a depression diagnosis.

• Loss of interest

When feeling low, you’re likely to lose interest in the things you love to do. But with cyclothymia, it’s unlikely you won’t be able to go about your day-to-day life.

• Mood swings

Hypomania, where you have bursts of energy and don’t feel the need for sleep, is a classic sign of cyclothymia.