Euthymic Mood: Definition, Treatment, Types, Causes and More

Introduction

People struggling with mood disorders or mental health issues often experience different states in terms of their mood. One such state is that of Euthymia, which refers to a state without mood fluctuations or disturbances. This state is most commonly used to describe a period of calm for a patient with bipolar disorder. Someone exhibiting euthymic mood will not display the signs of depression or mania, which are associated with bipolar disorder. Hence, some people define it as a steady state or a phase of well-being.

What Is Euthymia?

Euthymic mood refers to a state of calm without any mood fluctuations. It is often used to describe a period of calm in bipolar patients, but those suffering from other mood disorders may also experience euthymia.

Euthymic mood meaning is a state in which the individual seems joyful, tranquil, or cheerful. They may be more resilient to stressful scenarios than otherwise. Notedly, euthymia doesn’t necessarily mean a state of happiness. It may also mean that the individual can function without extreme moods.

In particular, the euthymic bipolar state refers to a state where someone suffering from bipolar disorder does not exhibit signs of depression or mania. Thus, it is a stable middle ground between the two extreme moods associated with the disorder.

The duration and frequency of euthymia might vary across individuals. While some may experience it frequently, it may be rare for others. Furthermore, the duration of this state may vary from a few days to several months across patients.

What Are The Top Signs And Symptoms Of Euthymic Mood?

Studies^[1] list the following signs as an indication of euthymia:

• The absence of mood disturbances is a common symptom of mood disorder. The individual may have short spells of irritability or anxiety due to some stimuli, but these should not affect their long-term mood.
• The individual is cheerful, calm, or joyful and may enjoy good sleep to wake up refreshed.
• The individual is resilient to stress-inducing triggers and may exhibit a flexible and pragmatic approach to life.
• If someone is suffering from a mood disorder, then exhibiting all these symptoms is highly likely that they are experiencing euthymic mood.

What Are The Different Types Of Euthymia?

Based on one’s emotional response to scenarios, euthymia is classified into different kinds. Here are the common types of euthymic mood exhibited by different individuals:

• Euthymia With Reactive Affect – Reactive affect in euthymic mood means that the individual reacts appropriately to a conversation. It means that their responses in a conversation are aligned with the nature of the conversation.
• Euthymia With Restrictive Affect – Restrictive affect during euthymia means that the individual is restricting their emotions in different situations. It means that they are not fully expressing their emotions.
• Euthymia With Blunted Affect – Blunted affect in euthymia refers to the lack of response to a situation by an individual. It could mean that the situation doesn’t affect the individual, or they do not show their reaction to the same.
• Euthymia With Congruent Affect – Euthymia with congruent affect means that the individual’s emotions are in congruence with the situation. On the other hand, the incongruent effect would mean that their emotions are not in line with the situation.

Common Causes Of Euthymic Mood

Euthymic mood meaning can be interpreted in various ways. While some describe it as a state of well-being, others may consider it a lack of mood disorder symptoms. Hence, it is hard to narrow down specific causes or triggers of euthymia.

However, based on the various signs of euthymia, studies^[2] have narrowed down certain parameters that may establish a euthymic state. Some of these possible causes are as below:

• Higher levels of self-acceptance.
• Improved competence in dealing with everyday situations and one’s environment.
• A feeling of personal growth that may be achieved through different experiences.
• A sense of autonomy over one’s personal choices instead of abiding by societal norms.
• More trusting and positive relationships with others.
• Higher resilience to a stressful environment.

All these factors may come together to help an individual achieve a euthymic bipolar state. One can work towards achieving this state with the help of self-work and psychotherapy along with any ongoing treatment for their underlying mood disorder.

How Is Euthymia Diagnosed?

Different types of euthymic mood are identified using the common signs of euthymia. An individual is considered to be in a state of euthymia if:

• They are not exhibiting mood fluctuations that are a symptom of their mood disorder.
• They are exhibiting a state of cheerfulness, tranquility, or joyfulness.
• They are handling stressful situations with resilience and pragmatism.

Additionally, the healthcare professional may ask them certain questions for an accurate diagnosis. Some questions that they may ask are the following:

• Does the individual generally feel cheerful or in good spirits?
• Does the individual feel calm or relaxed?
• Do they wake up feeling well-rested?
• Do they feel in charge of their everyday life and environment?
• Do they feel confident about themselves?
• Are they satisfied with their performance and growth in life?
• Do they have positive relationships with their friends and family?
• If they are ever angry or anxious, are these emotions short-lived?
• Are they able to adapt to new situations?

Based on the individual’s responses to these questions, a diagnosis or euthymic mood may be made.

What Are The Treatments For Euthymia?

Even though the euthymic bipolar state is stable without any mood fluctuations, the individual will still need to continue their treatment for bipolar disorder. The common treatment strategies for bipolar disorder include medicines, psychotherapy, and lifestyle management. These treatment strategies can help the patient maintain their euthymic state.

• Medicines – Medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers may be prescribed to the patient. In some cases, benzodiazepines are also used. The dosage of these medicines is adjusted by the doctor as per the patient’s current symptoms.
• Psychotherapy – A therapist can help the individual manage their mood better. Popular forms of therapy that may help with bipolar disorder include talk therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and interpersonal therapy.
• Lifestyle Management – Small lifestyle changes can make a huge difference to your symptoms and can help you achieve different types of euthymic mood. These changes may include consuming a healthy diet, improving sleep habits, and interacting with loved ones when needed. Additionally, meditation, and reducing smoking and alcohol consumption may help alleviate symptoms. Apart from the above, individuals struggling with anxiety may also need to continue their anxiety medication during euthymia.

FAQs About Euthymia

Conclusion