Nathan has a seven-year history of mild mood swings. When he is "high," he is coherent; when he is "low," he is never suicidal or unable to function. What is the best diagnosis for Nathan?
A) cyclothymic disorder
B) bipolar disorder, mixed
C) major depressive disorder, mixed
D) dysthymic disorder

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by chronic, fluctuating mood disturbance involving numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms that are not severe enough to meet the criteria for bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder. Nathan's symptoms of mild mood swings without severe impairment or suicidality align with this diagnosis.

Nathan Has a Seven-Year History of Mild Mood Swings