Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are the defining symptoms of bipolar I disorder. The characteristics of manic episodes are described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) which is the book used to diagnose mental illnesses.

Manic episodes cause either an elevated mood or an irritable mood. In order to be considered a true manic episode, the abnormally elevated or irritable mood of manic episodes must either be present for at least one week or be severe enough to require hospitalization.

An elevated mood requires three other manic symptoms during the mood disturbance to be considered a manic episode. The presence of irritability needs to have four other manic symptoms to constitute a manic episode.

Grandiosity or elevated self-esteem is a possible symptom of mania. During manic episodes, people often need less sleep than usual. The person may only sleep a few hours and not feel tired.

Manic episodes can cause the person to become more talkative. The person may experience a flight of ideas or racing thoughts. The flight of ideas is typically noticeable by others.

Distractibility is another common symptom of mania. A person having a manic episode may have difficulty remaining focused on an activity or conversation. Involvement in goals and goal-related activities are often increased during a manic episode.

Many problems that a person has during a manic episode are associated with the last symptom of mania which is an increased involvement of pleasurable activities without considering the consequences. Someone in a manic episode may spend money excessively or become promiscuous due to that symptom.

Manic episodes can cause hallucinations or delusions that are related to the grandiosity associated with mania. The person may have delusions that they are more special than other people. They may believe that they have been chosen by God or have superpowers.

If the symptoms have been caused by drug use, medication, or medical condition, they are not considered symptoms of a manic episode. The symptoms must cause impairment in the persons ability to function at work, school, home, or in relationships for it to be considered a manic episode.