Am I manic? Meaning, Signs, And Next Steps
Bipolar disorder, once called “manic depression,” is often characterized as a disorder of extremes with mood swings between intense highs and lows. Although many people understand that bipolar disorder can cause a person to fluctuate between these two states, fewer are aware of what the symptoms of each can look like.
One of the most common symptoms of bipolar disorder is the presence of mania. Learning to identify and understand mania may help you pinpoint signs of it in yourself or others so that you can take the next steps to get help.
An overview of bipolar disorder (manic depression)
Bipolar disorder—previously called manic depression—is a mental health condition characterized by periods of abnormally elevated or low mood. These phases, called manic episodes and depressive episodes, can look different depending on which subtype of bipolar disorder an individual is experiencing. The three subtypes of bipolar disorder are bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, and cyclothymia.
Bipolar I disorder
For a medical or mental health professional to diagnose bipolar I disorder, an individual typically must experience at least one manic episode. Manic episodes are periods of at least one week during which an elevated mood and heightened energy levels are present more often than not and occur almost every day. While a depressive episode occurs in most cases of bipolar I, the presence of depression is not necessary for a diagnosis. In some cases, an individual living with bipolar I disorder may experience what is called unipolar mania, which is marked by an absence of depressive symptoms.
Bipolar II disorder
Unlike bipolar I disorder, at least one depressive episode must have occurred for bipolar II disorder to be diagnosed. Depressive episodes are periods of abnormally low mood characterized by a lack of energy, loss of interest in activities, sleep disruptions, appetite changes, and a sense of worthlessness or hopelessness. Additionally, there must have been an episode of hypomania, which is a less severe form of the manic episodes present in bipolar I disorder. Most people with bipolar II disorder experience more depressive than hypomanic symptoms.
Cyclothymia
In cyclothymia, symptoms of both hypomania and depression are present, but they do not meet the diagnostic criteria for hypomanic or depressive episodes. With cyclothymia, shifts in mood may occur more frequently, and symptoms may worsen over time, potentially leading to the development of bipolar I or II.
Though the exact cause of bipolar disorder is still unknown, genetics and alterations in brain structure and function are thought to be primary contributors. Along with these potential causes, several factors may influence the development of the condition, including having family members with mood disorders, using recreational drugs, or living with a commonly comorbid mental health or medical condition (e.g., autoimmune thyroid disease). Other triggers can include stressful events, sleep disruptions, and the use of certain medications.
Mania: A definition
What differentiates a “normal” energy level and manic energy, though, is generally the degree to which the change in your mental state affects you and your ability to carry out daily life. Mania is not merely a temporary high. It is often accompanied by sleeplessness, exaggerated or aggressive speech patterns, a frenzy of activity, and an inability to “turn off,” so to speak.
Mania as an official symptom of bipolar disorder can therefore be defined as a period of time in which mental activity is at a peak. While it may sound harmless on the surface, this extreme type of functioning can involve hyperactivity, risky behavior, delusions, or hallucinations, among other things. Partly due to the potential severity of manic symptoms, premature death is six times more common in individuals with bipolar disorder than the general population.
However, not all instances of bipolar disorder-induced manic episodes involve enormous outward expressions of distress. Many people who are experiencing manic episodes can feel excited, happy, or mildly euphoric, resulting in increased productivity, excitement, and a seemingly positive outlook on life. This is often the case with hypomania. Although the symptoms tend to be less severe, the loved ones of a person with hypomania may still notice a shift in the person’s mood, which may be important for seeking help to prevent a more serious episode of mania or depression. Plus, the instability that fluctuating in and out of mania can cause may carry consequences for performance at work, maintaining healthy relationships, and feeling able to achieve goals in life.
Signs of a manic episode
Mania and hypomania are experiences based on the same set of symptoms that vary in their severity. These basic symptoms include:
Grandiose feelings. Grandiose feelings are any feelings that involve an inflated sense of self or skill. In hypomania associated with bipolar disorder, grandiose feelings might be slight, such as feeling that you can take on more than you are realistically able to take on.
Decreased need for sleep. Changes in sleep behavior are often present in all types of bipolar disorder, whether they are related to mania or depression. In light episodes, individuals experiencing mania might simply feel as though they are immune to the need for eight hours of sleep. While still feeling rested, they may sleep only two or three hours for a few days at a time. More severe episodes may cause a total lack of sleep, which may lead to hospitalization.
Racing thoughts. In manic and hypomanic episodes, a person may feel as though their thoughts are moving so quickly that focusing and following the flow of conversations can seem impossible.
Rapid or disjointed speech. As a consequence of rapid thoughts, rapid speech may develop during a manic episode. Initially, rapid speech might manifest as speaking more quickly than is typical, but speech might come so quickly that thoughts and ideas are disjointed and indiscernible.
Risky behavior. During a manic episode, people with bipolar disorder might find themselves making unwise or dangerous financial, romantic, physical, and medical decisions. Mania can encourage individuals to shed inhibitions that are normally present and engage in reckless behavior that may lead to serious negative consequences. For example, they may go on buying sprees, gamble excessively, or otherwise risk losing money rapidly.
Am I manic?
If you are experiencing any of the above signs and symptoms, it is possible you are experiencing a period of mania. With bipolar disorder, these periods tend to alternate with depression episodes.
Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:
Feelings of sadness, indifference, or numbness. A person with these symptoms may also feel a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed.
Irritability. Although lesser known than sadness, irritability can be a common symptom of depression and bipolar disorder. Not getting enough sleep and feeling stressed by emotional changes may lead a person to feel irritable or even angry.
Fatigue. People experiencing a depressive episode might find themselves struggling to make it through the day without taking a nap. They may feel tired no matter how much sleep they get.
Appetite changes. Eating more or less than usual may accompany depressive episodes, as can the changes in a person’s weight that can come as a result.
Thoughts of self-harm. Depression can trigger or increase thoughts about self-harm or suicide.
If both mania and depression feel familiar to you, you may be experiencing bipolar disorder. Even if you’re unsure about whether bipolar disorder is the right label for your symptoms, it may help to seek a professional opinion.
Managing symptoms of bipolar disorder
Although bipolar disorder can seem to take over your life, it is generally a treatable condition. Many individuals who experience bipolar disorder can go on to lead stable, fulfilling lives. The key to this may be receiving the right treatment. Treatment typically comprises medications and psychotherapy. Common drugs used to treat bipolar disorder are mood stabilizers, like lithium; antipsychotics, like risperidone (commonly used for individuals with symptoms of psychosis); and antidepressants, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Always consult with a healthcare professional prior to starting or stopping any medication. Additionally, eating a balanced diet, exercising, getting restful sleep, and engaging in other forms of self-care can help individuals manage core symptoms and related effects (e.g., stress) of the disorder.
In addition to speaking with a doctor or psychiatrist to receive a diagnosis and any medical treatment you may need, it may help to seek the support of a licensed therapist. If you don’t feel well enough to visit a therapist’s office, you might benefit from online therapy. With BetterHelp, you can typically be matched with a licensed therapist within 48 hours, and you can communicate with them via live chat, phone, or videoconferencing from the comfort of your home or anywhere with an internet connection.
Online therapy has been shown by multiple peer-reviewed studies to be effective in treating a variety of mental health disorders. One study found that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) was effective for bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, and substance use disorder, among other conditions.
Takeaway
What are the 3 types of mania?
In the context of mood episodes associated with bipolar disorder, there are three primary types of episodes, each with its own characteristics:
Manic Episode:
- Characterized by an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood.
- Symptoms may include increased energy, decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, impulsivity, and distractibility.
- To meet the diagnostic criteria, the symptoms must persist for at least one week (or less if hospitalization is required) and significantly impact daily functioning.
Hypomanic Episode:
- Similar to a manic episode but less severe in intensity.
- Symptoms include a milder form of elevated mood, increased energy, and heightened creativity.
- Hypomanic episodes are associated with a noticeable change in functioning but typically do not lead to severe impairment or require hospitalization.
- The duration of a hypomanic episode is at least four consecutive days.
Mixed Episode:
- Involves both manic or hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms occurring nearly every day during at least a one-week period.
- Individuals affected by mixed episode mania may experience the elevated mood and energy associated with mania or hypomania alongside symptoms of depression, such as low mood, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness.
These episodes are central to the diagnosis of bipolar I and bipolar II disorders. Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depressive disorder, involves cycling between these manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.
What are the 4 stages of mania?
The concept of "stages" in mania is not universally agreed upon or formally defined in psychiatric diagnostic criteria. However, some sources describe the progression of mania in terms of stages. These descriptions are generalizations, and not everyone with bipolar disorder will experience these stages in the same way. Four commonly discussed stages of mania:
Hypomania:
- Hypomania is often considered a milder form of mania.
- Individuals may experience increased energy, elevated mood, and heightened creativity.
- Symptoms are noticeable but generally do not result in severe impairment in the manic sense or require hospitalization.
- The duration of the manic phase is at least four consecutive days.
Acute Mania:
- In this stage, symptoms intensify, and the individual experiences a significant increase in energy, impulsivity, and decreased need for sleep.
- Speech may become rapid, and thoughts may race, leading to distractibility.
- The person may engage in risky behaviors, and judgment may be impaired.
- Duration is typically at least one week.
Psychotic Mania:
- Some individuals progress to a state of psychotic mania, characterized by hallucinations, delusions, or other disruptions in reality.
- Psychotic symptoms can contribute to further impairment in functioning and may necessitate hospitalization for safety reasons.
Severe Mania (Manic Delirium):
- This is the most extreme and potentially dangerous stage of mania.
- Symptoms are severe, and the person may lose touch with reality.
- There is an increased risk of extreme agitation and of self-harm or harm to others.
- Hospitalization is often necessary to ensure safety and provide intensive treatment.
How does a person with bipolar mania act?
A person experiencing bipolar mania may display a range of behaviors and symptoms that are characteristic of an elevated or irritable mood. The severity and specific manifestations of mania can vary among individuals. Here are some common behaviors and signs associated with bipolar mania:
- Elevated Mood: Individuals in a manic state often exhibit an abnormally elevated or euphoric mood. They may feel invincible, overconfident, in good humor, or overly optimistic.
- Increased Energy and Activity: Individuals experiencing mania typically experience a surge in energy levels. They may engage in increased physical activity, talk rapidly, and have difficulty sitting still.
- Decreased Need for Sleep: During a manic episode, individuals may feel a reduced need for sleep and may go for extended periods with little or no sleep without feeling fatigued.
- Racing Thoughts: Mania is often characterized by rapid and racing thoughts. The person may find it challenging to focus on one task or idea, leading to distractibility.
- Impulsivity: Impulsive behaviors are common during mania. This can include impulsive spending, risky sexual behavior, substance use, or engaging in activities with potential negative consequences.
- Grandiosity: Individuals in a manic state may have an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity. They might believe they possess special powers or talents.
- Talkativeness: Individuals experiencing mania often speak rapidly and may jump between topics. They may be difficult to interrupt, and conversations may be characterized by a pressured or frenetic pace.
- Irritability: While some individuals experience euphoria, others may manifest irritability or anger during mania. Small frustrations can trigger intense emotional responses.
- Poor Judgment: Mania can impair judgment, leading to poor decision-making. Individuals may take unnecessary risks or engage in activities with potentially harmful consequences.
- Psychotic Symptoms: In severe cases, mania may include psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. These symptoms can further contribute to impaired reality testing as they make sense of their world.
Can people with mania fall in love?
Individuals experiencing mania can still experience romantic feelings, including falling in love. However, the intensity and expression of romantic feelings during a manic episode may be influenced by the heightened emotional state characteristic of mania. The nature of these feelings can vary widely among individuals, and not everyone with bipolar disorder will experience the same patterns of romantic involvement during manic episodes.
What happens when someone experiences mania?
When someone experiences a manic episode, they undergo a distinct and noticeable change in mood, energy levels, and behavior. Mania is a key feature of bipolar disorder, and during these episodes, individuals often exhibit a cluster of symptoms that significantly impact their daily functioning. Here are common examples of symptoms during a manic episode:
- Elevated Mood: A predominant feature of mania is an abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood. Individuals may feel excessively happy, euphoric, or agitated.
- Increased Energy: Manic episodes are characterized by a surge in energy levels. Individuals may engage in excessive physical activity, appear restless, and have a heightened sense of vitality.
- Decreased Need for Sleep: One hallmark of mania is a reduced need for sleep. The person may feel energized and may go without sleep for extended periods without experiencing fatigue.
- Rapid Speech: Speech during mania is often rapid and pressured, it may be difficult to interrupt or get a word in. Individuals may talk excessively and jump between topics without a break.
- Racing Thoughts: Thoughts become rapid and may race from one idea to another. This can lead to distractibility and difficulty concentrating on a single task.
- Increased Goal-Directed Activity: Individuals in a manic state often engage in multiple activities simultaneously. They may take on new projects, initiate impulsive actions, or pursue grandiose goals.
- Impulsivity: Impulsive behavior is common during mania. This can include behavior that the individual may ordinarily be uncomfortable with such as impulsive spending, risky sexual behavior, substance use, or engaging in activities with potentially negative consequences.
- Grandiosity: Individuals may experience an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity. They might believe they possess special powers, talents, or a unique connection to significant events.
Can you experience mania without being bipolar?
It is possible to experience symptoms of mania without having bipolar disorder. Mania can occur in the context of several different mental health conditions, and it can also be associated with certain medical conditions or substance use.
What causes someone to act manic?
Mania is often associated with bipolar disorder, but it can also occur in other mental health conditions, medical conditions, or as a result of substance use. The specific causes of a manic personality or behavior can vary, and it's often a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors.
Is experiencing mania a mental illness?
Experiencing mania itself is not a mental illness, but it is a symptom that is commonly associated with certain mental health conditions. Mania is a key feature of bipolar disorder, which is a mood disorder characterized by cycling between episodes of mania or hypomania and depression.
Is experiencing mania a part of anxiety?
Experiencing mania is not a part of anxiety. Mania and anxiety are distinct mental health conditions with different characteristics. Mania is typically associated with bipolar disorder, while anxiety is a separate category of mental health disorders characterized by excessive worry, fear, and apprehension.
How do you calm a person with mania?
Calming a person experiencing mania can be challenging, and it often requires a thoughtful and supportive approach. If you're trying to help someone who is in a manic state, consider the following strategies:
- Remain Calm: Keep your own emotions in check. A calm and composed demeanor can help diffuse tension and create a more stable environment.
- Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety for both the individual and others. Remove any potential hazards or dangerous items from the immediate environment.
- Create a Calm Environment: Reduce external stimuli. Dim the lights, minimize noise, and create a quiet and soothing atmosphere to help decrease arousal levels.
- Avoid Arguing or Challenging: During a manic episode, individuals may have difficulty reasoning. Avoid arguing with them or challenging their beliefs directly. Instead, try to redirect the conversation or focus on calming activities.
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear and gentle boundaries. Communicate calmly and assertively if certain behaviors are disruptive or potentially harmful.
- Encourage Professional Help: Gently suggest seeking help from mental health professionals. Medication adjustments or therapeutic interventions may be necessary to manage manic symptoms effectively.
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