What is it called when one's mood fluctuates between sudden highs and lows?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
Based on the characteristics and duration of symptoms, if elevated mood is accompanied by明显 euphoria, abnormally increased energy, and accelerated speech and thinking for at least one week, and depressed mood is associated with low spirits, loss of interest, and lack of energy lasting for at least two weeks, with these two states alternating and interfering with normal functioning, it may indicate bipolar disorder.
The condition characterized by fluctuating mental states—alternating between elevated and low moods—does not correspond to a single diagnostic term. Accurate identification requires comprehensive evaluation based on specific symptom features, duration, and the presence of accompanying symptoms. Common possibilities include bipolar disorder, cyclothymic disorder, and emotional regulation disorder. If concerned, it is advisable to seek medical consultation promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:
From the perspective of symptom characteristics and duration: if the elevated mood phase involves明显 euphoria, abnormally increased energy, and accelerated speech and thinking lasting at least one week, and the low phase involves depressed mood, loss of interest, and fatigue lasting at least two weeks, with these states alternating and impairing normal functioning, the likely diagnosis is bipolar disorder. If mood fluctuations are milder—without meeting full criteria for mania or major depression—and persist for at least two years (one year for children and adolescents), the condition may be cyclothymic disorder.
In terms of accompanying symptoms: if mood swings are frequently triggered by real-life events such as stress or interpersonal issues, without extreme abnormalities in thought or energy, and consist only of brief emotional fluctuations accompanied by self-awareness of these changes, the cause may be emotional regulation disorder. If the fluctuations are also associated with anxiety, sleep disturbances, or difficulty concentrating, further differentiation among specific diagnoses should be made by considering the duration and severity of symptoms.
In daily observation, individuals can keep a record of specific emotional symptoms, the duration of each episode in days, whether daily functioning (such as work, study, or social activities) is affected, and whether other physical or psychological symptoms are present. Providing this detailed log during medical consultations can help healthcare professionals make a more accurate diagnosis, avoiding conclusions based solely on isolated symptoms.
