Mood disorders can be extremely serious, and it is important to get help if you think you may be suffering from one. Today we are going to talk about dysphoric hypomania, a mood disorder that is characterized by intense feelings of happiness and irritability. This disorder can be very dangerous and lead to suicidal thoughts or actions. If you think that you or someone you know may be suffering from dysphoric hypomania, please seek professional help right away.
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What is Dysphoric Hypomania?
Dysphoric hypomania is a serious mood disorder that is characterized by symptoms of both mania and depression. This can include a period of high energy and activity level followed by a period of low energy and depressed mood. These episodes can last for days or weeks at a time and can be very disruptive to daily life.
Hypomania is basically described as a less severe form of mania. It can cause similar symptoms as mania but to a much lesser extent. So, people with hypomania may feel very good and have lots of energy. But they don’t necessarily become reckless or impulsive like people with full-blown mania might.
Dysthymia is chronic low-level depression. It’s not as severe as major depression but it lasts a lot longer. People with dysthymia may have symptoms such as fatigue, trouble concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness.
When these two mood disorders are combined, it’s called dysphoric hypomania. And it can be a very difficult condition to live with. It is important to know that there are treatment options available and that help is out there.
What Are The Symptoms Of Dysphoric Hypomania?
There are several symptoms of dysphoric hypomania. They include:
- Decreased need for sleep
- Increased energy and activity level
- Excessive talking
- Racing thoughts
- Easily distracted
- Agitation or irritability
- Increased sex drive
- Abuse of drugs or alcohol
- Spending sprees
- Reckless behavior
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor or mental health professional. They can help you determine if you have dysphoric hypomania.
Dysphoric hypomania can be a very difficult disorder to live with. It can cause problems in your personal and professional life. If you have this disorder, it’s important to get treatment. Treatment can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
What Causes Dysphoric Hypomania?
The causes of dysphoric hypomania are not fully understood. But here are a few common causes that have been identified:
Family history of mood disorders
This is often an important factor in the development of any mood disorder. If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, for example, you may be more likely to develop a mood disorder yourself. Also, it is believed that certain genes may be involved in the development of mood disorders.
Brain chemistry
It is believed that an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain can play a role in the development of dysphoric hypomania. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters, and they help to regulate mood. When there is an imbalance of neurotransmitters, it can lead to changes in mood and behavior. In fact, many mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are thought to be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters.
History of trauma or abuse
Trauma or abuse in childhood has been linked to the development of dysphoric hypomania. This is because trauma can cause changes in the brain that lead to mood swings and impulsive behavior. Trauma can also make it difficult to regulate emotions, which can trigger episodes of dysphoric hypomania. For example, if you experienced abuse as a child, you may be more likely to experience episodes of dysphoric hypomania in adulthood.
Stressful life events
This is what can trigger a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder:
- death of a loved one
- loss of a job
- financial problems
Anything that causes extreme stress can be a trigger. In fact, studies have shown that people with bipolar disorder are more likely to experience stressful life events than people without the disorder.
Substance abuse
People usually turn to drugs or alcohol when they’re feeling low. But for people with bipolar disorder, substance abuse can actually trigger a manic episode. In fact, it impacts about 30% of people with the disorder. Also, it is believed to play a role in about 60% of people who seek treatment for bipolar disorder.
Sleep problems
Not getting enough sleep can trigger a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder. In fact, one study found that people with bipolar disorder who slept less than six hours a night were four times more likely to experience a manic episode than those who slept eight hours or more. For example, you might not be able to fall asleep or stay asleep, which can lead to fatigue and make it difficult to function during the day.
So, overall these are some causes that can develop dysphoric hypomania. It is important to remember that this disorder can be serious and should not be taken lightly. If you think you may be suffering from it, please reach out to a mental health professional for help.
How To Diagnose It?
The diagnosis of dysphoric hypomania can be tricky. There are various ways to approach the diagnosis, but the most important thing is to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. Some of the common ways o diagnose dysphoric hypomania include:
- A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
- A medical evaluation to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms
- Psychological testing
- Lab tests
- Imaging studies
One other potential cause has been ruled out, your doctor will likely diagnose you with dysphoric hypomania if you experience a significant change in mood and energy that lasts for at least four days. With these tests and evaluations, your doctor will be able to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of dysphoric hypomania, it is important to seek professional help. This mood disorder can be serious and should not be taken lightly. However, you can get help and there is hope for recovery. With the right treatment, you can live a happy and healthy life.
How To Treat Dysphoric Hypomania?
When you are in the throes of a hypomanic episode, it can be difficult to think clearly and make good decisions. If you are experiencing dysphoric hypomania, it is important to seek professional help.
There are several treatment options available for treating dysphoric hypomania. These include:
Medication
There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat dysphoric hypomania. The most common are:
- Mood stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
- Antidepressants
These medications are typically used in combination with one another. Also, it is important to discuss any potential side effects with your doctor before starting any new medication. Because medications can take several weeks to become fully effective, it is important to be patient and give them a chance to work.
Therapy
There are a number of different types of therapy that can be effective in treating dysphoric hypomania. These include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Interpersonal therapy
- Family therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Psychodynamic therapy
Therapies are believed to work by helping people to understand their thoughts and feelings and to develop healthier ways of coping with them. The primary aim of therapy is to help people to reduce their symptoms and to improve their quality of life.
In fact, it is been studied that people who receive therapy for dysphoric hypomania have a significantly lower risk of relapse than those who do not receive treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms of this disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Early intervention is key to preventing the development of serious complications.
Hospitalization
This option is usually only necessary if the person is experiencing severe symptoms and is a danger to themselves or others. Inpatient treatment can provide around-the-clock care and supervision, which can be beneficial in managing dysphoric hypomania.
Moreover, hypomania episodes often resolve on their own after a few days or weeks. But it can be really severe if you don’t get help.
If you are experiencing symptoms of dysphoric hypomania, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help you manage your symptoms and develop a treatment plan. Left untreated, dysphoric hypomania can lead to serious consequences, such as self-harm, substance abuse, and suicide.
So, these are some of the facts about dysphoric hypomania. If you or someone you know is struggling with this mood disorder, please seek professional help.
What Are Some Self-Care Tips?
Although professional treatment is essential for managing dysphoric hypomania, there are some things you can do to help yourself feel better. Here are some self-care tips for dealing with dysphoric hypomania:
Talk to someone you trust
This is actually beneficial and necessary for two reasons. First, it can help to talk through your feelings and experiences with someone who will understand and can offer helpful insights. Second, talking openly about your mental health can help reduce the stigma attached to mental illness, which can make it feel less shameful and more manageable.
Get regular exercise
Not only does exercise release endorphins, which can improve your mood, but it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety. Exercise can also help to improve sleep quality, which is often disturbed in people with dysphoric hypomania. In fact, physical activity may be one of the most effective self-care activities for people with this disorder.
Eat a healthy diet
What you eat can have a big impact on your mood and energy levels. Eating a balanced diet that includes:
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
- Lean protein
A healthy diet is an essential part of managing any mental illness, but it is especially important when dealing with a mood disorder like dysphoric hypomania.
Limit alcohol and drug use
Substance abuse can worsen the symptoms of dysphoric hypomania and make it harder to manage the condition. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation. And if you feel like you need to use drugs to cope with your dysphoric hypomania, it’s important to seek professional help.
Get enough sleep
Sleep is essential for good mental health. When you’re dealing with a mood disorder, it’s even more important to get enough rest. Sleep can help improve your mood and energy levels, and it can also help reduce stress and anxiety. There are various things you can do to improve your sleep habits, such as:
- Stick to a regular sleep schedule
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
If you’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor. They may be able to prescribe medication or recommend other treatments.
Practice relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety. Some relaxation techniques that may be helpful for people with dysphoric hypomania include:
- Progressive muscle relaxation
- Yoga
- Deep breathing exercises
- Meditation
- Guided imagery
If you’re not sure how to get started with relaxation techniques, there are many resources available online or through your local library.
Join a support group
Support groups are a great way to connect with other people who are dealing with similar issues. This can be a helpful and supportive experience, and it can also help reduce the sense of isolation that often comes with mental illness. There are many different types of support groups available, so you’re sure to find one that’s a good fit for you.
So, these are some self-care tips for people dealing with dysphoric hypomania. If you or someone you know is struggling with this disorder, please seek professional help. Dysphoric hypomania is a serious mood disorder that can be difficult to manage without professional help. With these tips, you will hopefully be able to better cope with the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Conclusion
To conclude, dysphoric hypomania is a serious mood disorder that can be very difficult to deal with. If you think you may be suffering from this condition, it is important to seek professional help. With proper treatment, however, it is possible to manage the condition and live a happy, fulfilling life.
For more information, please contact MantraCare. Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. If you have any queries regarding Online Bipolar Disorder Counseling experienced therapists at MantraCare can help: Book a trial Bipolar Disorder therapy session
