Rapid cycling is a pattern of episodes in bipolar disorder that happen frequently. Most people with bipolar disorder experience rapid cycling at least four times a year. This is when the person experiences mania or depression episodes related to bipolar disorder. The episodes appear unexpectedly and are normally temporary.

Rapid cycling is not a separate diagnosis from bipolar disorder. It is a description of the course of the disorder.

Common causes of rapid cycling.

There is no indication of when a person may experience rapid cycling and there is no definite pattern associated with the episodes. It doesn’t seem to have a specific cause but there are thought to be several reasons why a person may experience the episodes.

Antidepressants have been thought to have an impact as a possible trigger. Stress and sleep disturbance are also thought to be triggers in some individuals who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Other health conditions that could trigger these episodes are hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis, delayed development, and head injuries.

How is rapid cycling identified?

To identify rapid cycling a person must have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder. This is because it is not a diagnosis but rather a description of how the disorder develops. It is not typically easy to identify because one mood swing can increase and lessen without reaching any resolution. Most of the time the rapid cycling in bipolar disorder is diagnosed as a type of depression.

Here are a few mood shifts/symptoms to look for when an individual is experiencing rapid cycling.:

Rapid cycling manic episode.

The most common indicator of a manic episode is to have a minimum of three of the following symptoms present during an elevated manic episode lasting no less than seven days.

• Poor judgment.
• Reduced need for sleep.
• Increased excitement.
• A high mood.
• High levels of physical energy.
• Racing thoughts.
• Overreaction to physical, emotional, or mental stimulus.
• Delusions.
• Hallucinations.
• Fast speech.
• Increased sex drive.

A depressive episode.

There are times when rapid cycling may involve an intense episode of depression. This type of episode must present the following symptoms for at least two weeks:

• Unexplained aches
• Extreme sadness
• Unexplained crying
• Appetite or sleep changes
• Fatigue
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Reduced sex drive
• Pessimistic outlook
• Socially withdrawn
• Unable to concentrate
• Substance abuse
• Anger or increased agitation
• Feelings of failure

Hypo-manic episode.

This is similar to the manic episode but less intense. There are typically no hallucinations or delusional episodes with this mood.

Mixed state.

Individuals may experience these symptoms when manic and depressive states are experienced at the same time. This is a state full of energy but hopeless at the same time.

• Rapid speaking
• Suicidal thoughts
• Irritability
• Uncontrollable changes in thoughts and feelings of being in a dark place
• Hopelessness

Treatment options.

Once it has been determined that a person is bipolar and is experiencing rapid cycling, medication can often help with managing the episodes. There are typically adjustments to medication to get the right dosage and combinations. When taking any of these medications it is important to make sure to adhere to the dosage instructions to avoid any accidental side effects.

Finding support.

Being diagnosed with bipolar is not a death sentence. With the proper help, bipolar disorder can be managed to reach a place of creating a healthy lifestyle.

If you or someone you know is suffering from rapid cycling episodes and they have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, reach out to a Christian counselor at Santa Monica Christian Counseling. Through faith-based treatment plans, your counselor in Santa Monica, California can help with managing the symptoms.