Elaine has episodes of mania that alternate with episodes of depression. These episodes occur regularly. For Elaine's disorder to be considered rapid cycling, she must have episodes of mania within a year.

For Elaine's disorder to be considered rapid cycling, she must have ‘four or more ‘episodes of mania within a year.

Explanation:

Rapid cycling is a term used when a person with bipolar disorder experiences four or more mood swings (episodes) within a twelve-month period. An episode may consist of depression, mania, hypomania, or a condition known as a mixed state in which depression and mania are co-occurring.