A mania is a period of at least a week, during which you are in an abnormally good mood most of the time, need little sleep and are overflowing with energy or very irritable. A mania is not the same as hypomania.
People in such a state think faster, are more talkative, have all kinds of plans and ideas, are often sexually disinhibited and can spend an infinite amount of money. It goes wrong when, for example, you are in debt or – previously stable – relationships are at stake. The situation is also serious when hallucinations and delusions occur.
What else can occur in a mania is loss of shame, hubris, risky or dangerous decisions, quick conflict, aggression and psychotic features. Most people with bipolar disorder have depressive episodes in addition to mania or hypomania.
Features manic episode
A manic episode is a clearly recognizable period with an elevated or irritable mood. During this period you show at least 3 of the following symptoms:
- You have a bloated self-esteem
- You have less need for sleep. You often feel completely rested after a few hours in bed
- You are more talkative than usual
- You are easily distracted
- You undertake more activities
- You feel restless
- You engage in pleasant activities that can lead to painful situations, such as spending too much money at once
In addition, a manic period often causes:
- Difficulties in the field of work, relationships and social activities
- Necessary admission to a psychiatric ward
- Psychotic features
During a manic period you lose sight of reality. You buy things that you cannot afford or you run other (financial) risks.
Treatment of the manic episode
If you have manic episodes interspersed with major depressive episodes, it is important to get treatment. Bipolar disorder does not go away by itself. For more information about our treatments, please visit this bipolar disorder treatment page.
What can you do yourself?
If you are in a manic period, the following tips can help you:
- Make sure you go to bed early
- Get up at a set time
- Avoid tension
- Try to take a rest
- Don’t spend too much money all at once
Ask your doctor for help if you have problems OR contact a Samaritan