Final answer:
For Cyclothymic Disorder diagnosis, adults need at least 2 years of numerous periods with hypomanic symptoms, while children require 1 year.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Cyclothymic Disorder, for how long must there have been numerous periods with hypomanic symptoms that do not meet the criteria for a hypomanic episode? The answer is c) At least 2 years in adults (and 1 year for children and adolescents). Cyclothymic Disorder is categorized under mood disorders, which include various forms such as depression, dysthymic disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Mood disorders are among the most prevalent mental health issues, significantly impacting daily functioning and cognitive performance, especially after episodes of high mood swings in bipolar disorder. Cyclothymic Disorder, often considered a milder form of bipolar disorder, still requires a prolonged period of observation to properly diagnose due to its chronic nature and fluctuating symptoms that include periods with hypomanic and depressive features.