Hypomania is a persistent state of high, energetic mood that can last for days or longer. It is more common in people with bipolar disorder and can be triggered by medications. People with hypomania can experience symptoms such as an inflated sense of self-worth, purpose, and ability, as well as engage in reckless behavior. Medications and therapy can help manage the condition.
Hypomania is a persistent state of high, energetic mood that occurs for four days or more. This term means “under mania,” a reference to the fact that people with hypomania are not in a manic state, but are more elevated and agitated than people in a neutral mood. They maintain their connections to reality and are usually able to carry on with daily activities as they usually would. However, this state of mind can be dangerous because there are certain attitude changes associated with it that can put people at risk.
This type of mood is more common in people with bipolar disorder, although it can also be seen in people who have schizoaffective disorder or cyclothymia. Sometimes, it’s triggered by medications. Medications used to manage mood disorders can contribute to the development of hypomania, and sometimes other medications can as well.
A person with hypomania can experience a variety of symptoms. People can feel like they are flying high, with an inflated sense of self-worth, purpose, and ability. It’s not uncommon to make big plans, engage in ambitious activities, and engage in reckless behavior. The person could drive at high speed, fail to observe safety precautions in dangerous situations and otherwise endanger themselves.
This mood is not necessarily unrelentingly optimistic, although hypomania is often characterized by cheerfulness and happiness. People may also experience irritability and mood swings, where their mood changes very rapidly for no apparent cause. They also tend to sleep less, talk more, and feel inundated or overwhelmed with ideas. For some people, hypomania results in extreme productivity and they can finish projects, be more focused at work, and even learn new skills during a hypomanic episode.
This mood can persist for days, weeks, or even longer. It can progress to mania or relapse into depression, and the outcome of a period of hypomania is not always predictable. Some people may view the mood as positive, taking advantage of increased productivity and interest in socializing. Others may see this as a cause for concern due to concerns that they might develop more extreme mania or depression.
Medications can help manage conditions associated with hypomania and smooth the hypomania itself. Some patients also benefit from therapy, like-minded support groups, exercise, and other measures. A mental health professional can evaluate and provide counseling and assistance.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
