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Rapid Cycling

Rapid Cycling occurs when a person with bipolar disorder (manic depression) experiences four or more mood swings or episodes in a twelve-month period. The term ultra-rapid cycling may be applied to those who cycle through episodes within a month or less. Ultradian refers to distinct episodes within a twenty-four hour period. Found here are resources and information on this symptom.
Rapid Cycling - A Laymen's Definition and Explanation
The official definition of rapid cycling is having 4 or more distinct episodes of depression and hypo/mania in one year, originally with periods of normal mood between episodes.
What Is Rapid Cycling?
A concise answer to this frequently asked question.
Circadian Rhythms Factor in Rapid- Cycling Bipolar Disorder
Scientists continue to make tremendous strides in understanding the regulation of the circadian system in humans and animals. We now know that the body's clock is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, and that the SCN regulates the pineal gland's secretion of the hormone melatonin.
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