The DSM guideline is having more than 4 distinct episode in a 12 month rolling period is considered Rapid cycling.

Rapid cycling happens but often people call it rapid cycling when in fact they have yet to find baseline. So until a person find stability whats to compare too?

Ultra cycling is quite rare... This is often just a person that is all over the map because they haven't found baseline and the treatment meds and coping skills are not working , so adjustments need to be made its not just medications.

And just food for thought, Often Bipolar is to blame for any mood shift, Bipolar people are going to be happy or sad or pissed because the situation warrants it.

Examples:

If I am stuck in traffic and going to be late for something ,, Sure I am going to get angry... Bipolar? No traffic.

If my husband is being a jerk ,, I can get pissed and it have nothing to do with Bipolar.

If my pet goldfish dies.. Im going to be sad.

If a kid is screaming bloody murder in the grocery store and Mom or Dad doesn't try to quiet the child down... I'm going to be irritated as hell .

Of course this is just my opinion