Are you feeling incredibly energetic and happy these days? Let's talk about hypomania!

There are days, right? We feel so energetic, so happy. Even if it's a mountain of work, we feel like we can get it done in one go. That's normal. But if this happiness, this energy is much higher than your usual self, and it lasts for several days, and if it seems like a big difference to others, it could be a symptom of a condition called hypomania. Don't worry, let's talk about this simply.

What exactly is hypomania?

Simply put, hypomania is a period of abnormally high mood, energy level, and activity. Most importantly, it should be a clear change from your usual behavior , and your family and friends should notice the change.

This is a key symptom of bipolar disorder, and can also be seen in other mental health conditions.

What is the difference between Hypomania and Mania?

Many people confuse the two. Hypomania is a slightly less severe form of mania. Let's look at the main differences between the two.

What are the triggers for hypomania?

The reasons for this condition may vary from person to person, but some of the most common causes are:

• A very stimulating environment: things like loud noise, bright lights, and crowded places.
• A major life change: something like a divorce, marriage, or job loss.
• Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can be a major cause.
• Drug or alcohol use.

How long does a hypomanic episode last? What happens after that?

According to the diagnostic criteria, this condition must last for at least four days , but sometimes it can last up to several months.

After this time, you may feel the following:

• You may feel happy or ashamed about your behavior.
• You may feel exhausted thinking about the amount of work you took on at that time.
• You may have a vague memory of what happened in those days.
• You may need to sleep a lot because you feel very tired.
• If you have bipolar disorder, you may experience severe depression after this period.

What are the symptoms of hypomania?

These symptoms are not the same for everyone, but here are some common ones. These are similar to the symptoms of mania, but are less severe.

• Having unusually high strength and functionality.
• A feeling of great joy and excitement.
• Insomnia or feeling well-rested even after only a few hours of sleep.
• Having high self-esteem. Thoughts like "I can do anything."
• Talking more than usual. Talking too fast to interrupt others.
• Racing thoughts. Thoughts about many different topics come to mind at the same time.
• Easily distracted, even by unimportant things.
• To be completely immersed in an activity and work like a madman about it.
• Showing meaningless movements. For example, pacing around the house or office, fidgeting while sitting.
• Behaving impulsively. This leads to making bad decisions. For example, spending a lot of money on things all at once, risky sexual behavior, and foolish business investments.

How do you tell the difference between just being happy and hypomania?

This is the problem that many people have. We all want to be happy and well. But being well doesn't always mean you're well. After a while, when you understand yourself, you'll be able to recognize the warning signs when you're in a mood that's different from just being happy.

The best thing to do is to ask for help from family and friends you trust and who are around you regularly. Tell them to tell you if you notice any changes in your behavior or mood that are beyond normal.

What does hypomania look like on the outside and feel like on the inside? (Real-life examples)

Imagine some of these events...

• You suddenly start cleaning the entire house and do the same thing tirelessly for about 20 hours straight.
• I stay awake until 3 am, sleep for two or three hours, and wake up the next morning feeling completely refreshed.
• I start several projects at the same time and work on them non-stop.
• Even though they have no training or experience, they feel like there is nothing they can't do.
• Friends call and text everyone all day and night. They post photos and comments on social media all the time.
• When talking, they jump from one topic to another very quickly.

What are the underlying causes of hypomania?

Scientists still can't say for sure what the cause is, but they believe there are several factors at play.

• Family history: If someone in your family has bipolar disorder, you are at higher risk of developing it, but it doesn't mean you will definitely develop it.
• A chemical imbalance in the brain.
• As a side effect of some medications (especially some antidepressants) .
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Major life changes (e.g., a death, divorce).
• Severe stress.
• Changes in sleep patterns.
• As a symptom of another mental or physical condition (e.g., brain injury, stroke, lupus).

How does a doctor accurately diagnose this condition?

When you see a doctor, they will ask about your medical history, your family's medical history, and the medications you are taking. Sometimes they may also do blood tests and scans to check for other conditions that can cause these symptoms (such as hyperthyroidism).

Once other medical conditions are ruled out, you may be referred to a psychiatrist. To diagnose hypomania, doctors use the American Psychiatric Association's DSM-5 guidelines. According to them:

• There must be an unusually high mood and energy for most of the day, for at least four consecutive days .
• Three or more of the symptoms we discussed earlier must be clearly displayed.
• This condition should not significantly interfere with daily activities and should not be severe enough to require hospitalization.
• This condition cannot be the result of drugs or any other medical condition.

What are the treatments?

Treatment for hypomania includes psychotherapy, mood stabilizers, and sometimes antipsychotics.

Psychotherapy

Here, you can talk to a psychiatrist or counselor, identify your symptoms and triggers, and learn ways to manage them.

Medicines

Your doctor will prescribe the most appropriate medication for your condition. Mood stabilizers such as Lithium and Valproate, and antipsychotics such as Olanzapine and Quetiapine are commonly used.

Important: Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medication without your doctor's advice.

Can this condition be managed without medication?

If your condition is not severe, you can try to manage it through lifestyle changes and self-care. But you should still talk to your doctor about this.

• Go to bed at a regular time. Get 6-9 hours of good sleep every day.
• Avoid stimulants. Stay away from things like coffee, tea, sugary foods, and loud noises.
• Maintain a good diet.
• Exercise. Even something as simple as walking for 30 minutes a day is good.
• Avoid drugs and alcohol completely.
• Practice ways to calm your mind. Things like yoga, meditation, and listening to calming music can help.
• Join a support group. Talking to people who have had similar experiences as you can be a great source of strength.

Hypomania, Hypomania, Bipolar Disorder, Mental Health, Hyperactivity, Mood, Bipolar Disease, Mania, Mania, Mental Symptoms, Bipolar II