The longest the patient has been free of mood swings during this period is 2 months. During the first 2 years of this disorder, the patient has not fulfilled criteria for Manic , Mixed, or Major Depressive Episode. Schizoaffective disorder doesn't explain the disorder better, and it isn't superimposed on Schizophrenia, Schizophreniform Disorder, Delusional Disorder or Psychotic Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. The symptoms are not directly caused by a general medical condition or the use of substances, including prescription medications. These symptoms cause clinically important distress or impair work, social or personal functioning.
Some disorders have similar or even the same symptom.
The clinician, therefore, in his diagnostic attempt has to differentiate against the following disorders which he needs to rule out to establish a precise diagnosis. In some cases individuals may prefer no treatment or supportive psychotherapy alone. Lithium, a mood stabilizer used commonly in the treatment of Bipolar Disorder, has been proven to help a substantial number of people with Cyclothymia. Couples or Family therapy is often sought to help with the problems in relationships brought on by the disorder.