Am I Showing The Symptoms Of Mania?
Manic episodes are generally related to bipolar disorder. If you've recently experienced moments in which you felt overpowered by an extreme emotion for no apparent reason, you might wonder if you're showing symptoms of mania. Signs of mania typically include changes to thoughts and speech, risky behavior, sleep disturbances, and elevated energy levels. Other causes of mania can include postpartum psychosis, seasonal affective disorder, cyclothymic disorder, and schizoaffective disorder. It can be important to reach out for professional help if you believe you may be living with mania. One way to do so may be to match with a therapist through an online therapy platform.
About bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder can be defined as a mood disorder characterized by shifts between manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes. Manic episodes generally refer to periods of heightened extreme emotions. Mania tends to be more severe than hypomania, but both usually have the same symptoms.
Bipolar disorder was once known as "manic depression," although medical professionals typically no longer use this term. In 1980, "manic depression" was removed from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) because "bipolar" is generally believed to reflect swinging from one emotional extreme to the other more accurately. The manic and depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder can impact an individual’s career, relationships, and emotional well-being. In addition to challenges related to mental health, problems involving physical health—including heart disease and diabetes—can arise out of episodes of bipolar disorder.
Though the exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, genetics and abnormalities in brain structure and function are thought to contribute to its development. In addition to these potential causes, several factors are thought to increase the risk of an individual experiencing bipolar disorder, including the use of recreational drugs and the existence of a commonly comorbid mental health or medical condition (e.g., anxiety disorders).
Bipolar disorder is currently divided into two subtypes: bipolar I disorder and bipolar II disorder. One of the differences between bipolar I and II can be the severity of manic episodes.
Bipolar I disorder
A person diagnosed with bipolar I must have experienced at least one episode of mania and may or may not have also experienced a major depressive episode. For a mental health professional to diagnose an individual with bipolar I disorder, a manic episode—marked by an elevated mood and heightened energy levels—must have persisted for a week.
Bipolar II disorder
An individual diagnosed with bipolar II must have experienced episodes of both hypomania and major depression. Hypomanic symptoms tend to be less severe and persistent than manic symptoms. Those with bipolar II disorder tend to experience more major depressive episodes than hypomanic episodes.
A major depressive episode usually features some of the symptoms listed below to the degree that they affect everyday life.
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Loss of interest
- Sleeping too little or not enough
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Decreased ability to concentrate
- Change in appetite
- Weight gain or loss
- Thinking about or planning suicide
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. You can reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (formerly the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline) by dialing 988 via phone or text or by using the chat function on www.988lifeline.org.
Bipolar disorder can escalate quickly. For example, an individual might experience episodes of mania, hypomania, or depression during a significant life event, such as the loss of a job or the death of a loved one. Conversely, they may experience these episodes with no apparent cause.
Potential symptoms of manic episodes
As with other conditions, symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary from person to person. However, some symptoms tend to be common among many people who experience bipolar disorder-related mania.
What follows is a list of common signs often listed as part of the definition of manic episodes. This list is not a diagnostic tool. However, if you relate to one or more of these symptoms, you may want to consider discussing them with a licensed therapist.
Abnormalities in speech or thought patterns
Mania often has the potential to lead to abnormalities in speech or thought patterns that may create experiences in which you feel unable to stop talking (sometimes to the point of making others uncomfortable). This may be accompanied by talking louder and faster than you usually do. Disorganized thought is a common set of psychotic symptoms that can arise during severe episodes of mania. These bipolar disorder signs can be concerning, often prompting family members of the individual exhibiting them to bring them to the emergency room.
This doesn't normally refer to individuals who naturally speak quickly or loudly. Instead, it can refer to speech that strays from your usual patterns. For example, someone who typically talks slowly and carefully may be experiencing signs of mania if they begin to speak faster and louder and feel unable to stop. This experience is sometimes referred to as pressured speech.
The same can apply to an individual's thought patterns. Some have reported experiencing racing thoughts that are not typical for them during an episode of mania. Others have noticed a disconnect in their ideas that may be difficult or impossible to follow. For instance, you may talk about your class schedule one minute and a sports game the next without realizing you've jumped topics. You might also experience repetitive thoughts that won't quit or thought patterns that dissolve into a non-linear progression.
Elevated energy levels and multitasking
Experiencing high energy levels can sometimes be a symptom of a manic episode, as can multitasking. Together, these may have the potential to drive people to do several things at once. Often, these are things that don't need to be done, like cleaning the house from top to bottom every day. In addition, during a manic episode, individuals may feel so energized that they don't realize how much they're taking on.
Sleep disturbances
During a manic episode, individuals may feel rested with little sleep or struggle to fall or stay asleep. Mania can lead to insomnia. For example, you may go to bed later and wake up earlier than usual without feeling tired. This is often experienced alongside the elevated energy levels mentioned above.
Most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep every night to feel sufficiently recharged. Sleep disturbances, particularly a lack of sleep, for someone with bipolar disorder or another mood disorder, may trigger a manic episode, and a manic episode can cause one to lose sleep. This may contribute to a feedback loop that can be hard to manage without professional treatment.
Risky behavior
Someone experiencing a manic episode may experience a stronger-than-normal desire for sexual activity. This can be known as "hypersexuality," a common symptom of mania and hypomania. At times, an individual experiencing hypersexuality may turn to risky or illegal activities to fulfill their sexual urges.
Even if an individual is not experiencing hypersexuality, they may experience the urge to partake in hazardous activities during a manic episode. Other risky behaviors may include gambling, excessive spending, and dangerous driving. For example, you might make a foolish business investment without proper research because you feel overly confident it will succeed, or you might go on a shopping spree, even if it leaves you unable to pay rent.
Other symptoms of mania
The list of symptoms above covers some common experiences reported by individuals diagnosed with bipolar disorder during manic episodes. However, mania may be associated with other symptoms, such as the following:
- Extreme happiness, excitement, or euphoria
- Feeling invincible
- Inflated self-esteem or self-confidence
- Being easily distracted
- Becoming obsessed with an activity
- Feeling irritable or angry without reason
- Pacing and fidgeting
- Delusions or paranoia
- Hallucinations
It may be useful to keep a diary of any symptoms you believe could be indicative of mania or a mental health disorder. A record of your potential symptoms can be helpful for mental health professionals in understanding, identifying, or ruling out mental health conditions.
Other causes of mania
This article focuses on mania associated with bipolar disorder, which is generally the most common cause of manic episodes or experiences. However, symptoms of mania may also be the result of other mental illnesses:
- Seasonal affective disorder
- Postpartum psychosis
- Schizoaffective disorder
- Cyclothymia
What to do about symptoms of mania
In general, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for bipolar disorder. The National Alliance on Mental Illness lists some common therapy types for bipolar disorder treatment, though. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may teach you to identify unhelpful or unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors and turn them into helpful, healthy ones. While it is generally not possible to prevent bipolar disorder, early detection can help improve one’s chances of experiencing positive outcomes following therapy and other treatments.
If you believe you’re living with symptoms of bipolar disorder or related disorders, a mental health specialist can provide you with an evaluation. This may involve a discussion of your medical history, a physical examination, and screenings to assess the potential severity of your bipolar symptoms. If a provider finds evidence of bipolar episodes, your treatment plan may consist of medication, therapy, and healthy lifestyle changes. Always consult with a healthcare professional prior to starting or stopping any medication.
Whether you've been diagnosed with bipolar disorder or another mental health condition or are just curious, being aware of the potential symptoms of mania may help you recognize your current or previous patterns. If you suspect you're experiencing the symptoms of mania, speaking with a licensed mental health professional can help you identify potential mental health disorders or address existing diagnoses.
Benefits of online therapy
Online therapy may be a convenient form of care for those who may be living with bipolar disorder or another mental health disorder that can involve mania. As it generally doesn’t require you to leave your home and allows you to schedule sessions at times that fit into your existing routine, there are typically fewer barriers to treatment. Plus, it can be easy to match with a therapist who has experience helping others with similar concerns.
Effectiveness of online therapy
According to a 2021 study, online therapy can be a suitable treatment for bipolar disorder. This study joins many others that suggest online therapy generally offers similar results to in-person therapy. Both treatment options can be valid choices for those seeking care for mental health concerns.
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Takeaway
How long does manic episode last?
The duration of a manic episode can vary, but according to the diagnostic criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), for an episode to be classified as a manic episode in bipolar disorder, it must last for at least one week. However, if the symptoms are severe enough to require hospitalization, the duration may be shorter.
Some individuals may experience a milder form of mania known as hypomania, which lasts for at least four consecutive days. Hypomanic episodes are less severe than full-blown manic episodes but still involve elevated mood, increased energy, and other characteristic symptoms that are outside of a person’s normal behavior. Individuals may experience a rapid cycling between depressed mood and mania.
Can you realize you're manic?
Individuals experiencing a manic episode in bipolar disorder can have insight into their own condition and may recognize that they are in a manic state. This awareness is referred to as "insight" in the context of mental health. However, the level of insight can vary widely from person to person and may depend on the severity of the manic symptoms. It may be beneficial to know if you have a family history of mania or bipolar disorder as there is a strong genetic component to both.
Some people with bipolar disorder may have good insight and be able to recognize the symptoms of a manic phase as unusual or abnormal. They may be aware that their thoughts, behaviors, and emotions are atypical and may even express a desire for help or treatment. Others may have impaired insight, meaning they are less aware of the severity or impact of their manic symptoms. For these individuals, relying on family and friends or attending talk therapy may be an important part of managing mania and gaining insight into their actions and behaviors.
What are the 4 stages of mania?
The experience of mania in bipolar disorder is often described in terms of different stages, which reflect the intensity and progression of symptoms. It's important to note that not everyone with bipolar disorder will necessarily experience these stages in the same way, and the severity and duration of each stage can vary. However, here are four general stages that are commonly associated with mania:
Hypomania:
- This is a milder form of mania.
- Individuals may experience increased energy, elevated mood, and heightened creativity.
- They may be more sociable, talkative, and outgoing than usual.
- Hypomania may not significantly impair daily functioning, and individuals might even feel more productive.
Acute Mania:
- As mania progresses, symptoms become more intense and pronounced.
- There is a marked increase in energy levels, often accompanied by impulsivity and poor decision-making.
- Sleep disturbances become more apparent, with individuals needing less sleep or experiencing difficulty falling asleep.
- Elevated mood may escalate to irritability or even aggression.
Psychotic Mania:
- In some cases, mania can escalate to a state where psychotic symptoms emerge.
- Individuals may experience psychotic features such as hallucinations, delusions, or other distortions of reality.
- Impaired judgment and insight are common during this stage.
- Psychotic mania can pose significant risks to the individual's safety and well-being.
Severe Mania (Manic Delirium):
- This stage represents the most severe form of mania.
- Symptoms are extreme, and the individual may lose touch with reality.
- There is an increased risk of self-harm or harm to others.
- Hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the individual's safety and provide intensive treatment.
Not everyone with bipolar disorder will progress through all these stages, and some individuals may not experience all stages during a manic episode.
Can you be manic without bipolar disorder?
It is possible to experience symptoms of mania without having bipolar disorder. Mania is a key feature of bipolar disorder, but it can also occur in other mental health conditions, as well as in certain medical conditions or as a result of substance use.
Some mental health conditions that can involve manic symptoms include:
- Bipolar I Disorder: Characterized by extreme mood swings and episodes of mania that may alternate with depressive episodes.
- Bipolar II Disorder: Involves periods of hypomania (less severe form of mania) alternating with depressive episodes.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: Involves periods of hypomania and mild depression that last for at least two years.
- Substance-Induced Mood Disorder: Mania-like symptoms can be induced by the use of certain substances, including drugs or medications.
- Schizoaffective Disorder: Combines symptoms of schizophrenia with mood disorder features, including mania.
- Major Depressive Disorder with Mixed Features: Some individuals with depression may experience symptoms of mania during depressive episodes.
Is it anxiety or mania?
Anxiety and mania are distinct mental health conditions with different characteristics, though they can have some overlapping symptoms. It's essential to recognize the differences between the two to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Here are some key distinctions:
Anxiety:
- Predominant Emotion: The primary emotion in anxiety disorders is excessive worry, fear, or apprehension.
- Physical Symptoms: Symptoms may mimic mania and often include muscle tension, restlessness, fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.
- Thought Patterns: Anxious thoughts may be focused on potential future threats or dangers, and individuals may engage in avoidance behaviors to reduce anxiety.
- Duration: Anxiety symptoms may be chronic or episodic, lasting for an extended period, but they can fluctuate in intensity.
Mania:
- Predominant Emotion: Mania is characterized by an elevated or irritable mood.
- Physical Symptoms: Symptoms include increased energy, impulsivity, rapid speech, decreased need for sleep, heightened self-esteem, and distractibility.
- Thought Patterns: Thought processes during mania often involve racing thoughts, grandiosity, and poor judgment. Individuals may engage in risky behaviors without recognizing potential consequences.
- Duration: Manic episodes typically last for at least one week and are often accompanied by depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
Some conditions, such as bipolar disorder, can involve both anxiety and manic symptoms. In these cases, individuals may experience periods of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and periods of anxiety or depression.
What are the 3 types of mania?
In the context of bipolar disorder, there are three main types of mood episodes, each with distinct characteristics:
Manic Episode:
- A mood disturbance characterized by a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood.
- Symptoms include increased energy, decreased need for sleep, excessive talking, racing thoughts, heightened self-esteem or grandiosity, impulsivity, and distractibility.
- To be classified as a manic episode, 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.
- Individuals may experience increased energy, elevated mood, 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.
- This means that individuals 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.
What do manic eyes look like?
While there is no universally defined appearance for "manic eyes," individuals experiencing a manic episode in bipolar disorder may display certain eye-related signs that reflect the intensity of their mood and energy. It's important to note that these observations are subjective and may not be present in every individual with bipolar disorder. Some potential eye-related signs associated with a manic episode may include:
- Dilated Pupils
- Rapid Eye Movement
- Increased Gaze Intensity
- Restlessness
These signs are not exclusive to manic episodes, and other factors, such as stress, fatigue, or certain medications, can influence eye appearance and behavior. Moreover, individual variations exist, and not everyone experiencing mania will exhibit noticeable changes in their eyes.
Can you see bipolar disorder in the eyes?
A person cannot definitively diagnose bipolar disorder or any mental health condition solely by looking into someone's eyes. While certain behaviors or expressions may be associated with specific mood states, mental health disorders, including bipolar disorder, require a comprehensive assessment by a qualified mental health professional.
How do you calm a person with mania?
Caring for someone experiencing a manic episode can be challenging, but there are strategies you can try to help calm the person and provide support. It's important to remember that managing mania often requires professional intervention, and you should encourage the individual to seek help from a mental health professional. Here are some general tips for calming a person with mania:
- Stay Calm: Maintain a calm and composed demeanor. Your own emotional state can impact the person you're trying to help.
- Establish a Safe Environment: Ensure that the surroundings are safe and free from potential hazards. Remove any items that could be used recklessly.
- Limit Stimulation: Reduce environmental stimuli. Dim the lights, minimize noise, and create a calm atmosphere to help lower arousal levels.
- Encourage Rest: Adequate sleep is crucial. Encourage the person to rest and establish a quiet and comfortable space for them to relax.
- Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote a healthy lifestyle, including regular meals and physical activity. Balanced nutrition and hydration are important.
- Maintain Routine: Establish and maintain a consistent daily routine. Predictability can be comforting and may help stabilize mood.
- Limit Decision-Making: During a manic episode, decision-making abilities may be impaired. Help the person by limiting choices and providing clear, simple options.
- Encourage Professional Help: Support the person in seeking help from a mental health professional. Medications or therapy may be necessary to manage manic symptoms.
How do you talk to a person with mania?
Communicating with someone experiencing mania requires patience, empathy, and a calm approach. Here are some tips for talking to a person with mania:
- Stay Calm and Grounded: Keep your own emotions in check and remain calm. A composed and grounded demeanor can help manage the conversation.
- Be Respectful and Non-Confrontational: Approach the person with respect and avoid confrontation. Use a non-judgmental tone and avoid criticizing or belittling their feelings or experiences.
- Use Clear and Simple Language: Keep your communication clear, concise, and straightforward. Avoid complex language or lengthy explanations.
- Be a Good Listener: Allow the person to express themselves and listen actively. Demonstrate that you are there to support them without interrupting.
- Acknowledge Their Feelings: Validate the person's emotions without necessarily agreeing with their thoughts or beliefs. Acknowledge their feelings and let them know you understand they are going through a challenging time.
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