•  
  •  

Bipolar Disorder: Hypomanic Episodes

Topic Overview

Hypomanic episodes can occur in people who have mood disorders. Hypomanic episodes are less severe than manic episodes, although a hypomanic episode can still interfere with your ability to function properly.

Hypomania may be diagnosed if:

  • A distinct period of elevated or irritable mood occurs in which the mood is clearly different from a regular nondepressed mood.
  • Three or more of the following symptoms last for a significant period of time:
    • Inflated self-esteem or unrealistic feelings of importance
    • Decreased need for sleep (feels rested after only a few hours of sleep)
    • Talkativeness
    • Racing thoughts or flight of ideas
    • Being easily distracted
    • An increase in goal-directed activity (work or personal)
    • Irresponsible behaviors that may have serious consequences, such as going on shopping sprees, engaging in increased sexual activity, or making foolish business investments
  • The mood or behavior change is noticeable to others.
  • The episode is not severe enough to cause impairment in social or job functioning and does not require hospitalization.
  • The symptoms are not caused by substance abuse.

If you feel that you or someone you care about may be experiencing a hypomanic episode, contact your doctor to discuss the possible causes and the treatment options.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last Revised March 1, 2012

Last Revised: March 1, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine & Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.