Cyclothymia DSM-5 Quiz

Cyclothymia Self-Check

This self-check can help you notice patterns of “mini-highs” and “mini-lows” that may resemble cyclothymia. Please note, the results are for educational purposes only and are not a medical diagnosis.

Time Frame: When answering, think about your feelings and behavior over the past 2 years (or the past 12 months if you’re under 18).

Crisis Support: If you feel unsafe with your thoughts or might act on them, please call or text 988 in the U.S. or contact your local emergency number. You can also text HOME to 741-741.

Part 1: “Mini-Highs” (High-Energy Moods)

1. I’ve had bursts of energy that felt above my normal.

2. I needed much less sleep yet still felt wired.

3. Friends said I talked faster or louder than usual.

4. My thoughts raced so quickly I jumped from idea to idea.

5. I was easily distracted by sights or sounds.

6. I started many projects or activities at once.

7. I took chances (spending, driving, etc.) I later wondered about.

8. I felt unusually confident or on top of the world.

Part 2: “Mini-Lows” (Low-Energy Moods)

9. I often felt down or blue.

10. Things I usually enjoy seemed boring.

11. I tired out easily or lacked energy.

12. I slept a lot more / a lot less than usual.

13. My appetite changed noticeably.

14. I felt worthless or guilty about little things.

15. It was hard to think clearly or make decisions.

16. I felt hopeless about the future.

Part 3: Pattern & Duration

17. These ups and downs have been going on for about two years (one year if under 18).

18. The mood swings have been present at least half the time.

19. I rarely had a stretch longer than 2 months with no mood symptoms.

20. My mood keeps switching between mini-highs and mini-lows, not staying flat.

Part 4: Impact on Life

21. The mood shifts have upset me or the people close to me.

22. They have caused problems at home, school, work, or socially.

Part 5: Other Experiences (Please answer Yes or No)

A. Have you ever had a period of feeling "high" or "manic" that was so extreme it lasted for a week, significantly disrupted your life, or required hospital care? (This is more severe than the "mini-highs" described earlier).

B. Have you ever had a period of at least two weeks where you felt intensely depressed, lost interest in everything, and had several other symptoms like changes in sleep/appetite, extreme fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness?

C. Did your mood swings begin only after starting a new medication, using substances, or developing another medical condition?

Your Educational Results

Important Disclaimers

Educational Use Only: This checklist is not a clinical diagnosis or a substitute for a professional evaluation by a qualified doctor or mental health professional.

Privacy: Your responses are processed in your browser and are not stored or transmitted to any server. Your results are private unless you choose to share them.

Crisis Resources: If you are in crisis or think you might act on suicidal thoughts, call or text 988 (U.S.), dial your local emergency number, or text HOME to 741-741 right away.