Do you know someone who is always high-energy and seems to be bouncing off the walls? They may be experiencing a hypomanic episode. This can be a very challenging time for both the person experiencing it and their loved ones. In this blog post, we will discuss what a hypomanic episode is, how to deal with it, and some of the signs that someone may be experiencing one.
Contents
- 1 What Is A Hypomanic Episode?
- 2 What Are The Signs Of A Hypomanic Episode?
- 3 What Causes Hypomanic Episodes?
- 4 How Does A Hypomanic Episode Different From Mania?
- 5 What Are The Impacts Of A Hypomanic Episode?
- 6 How It Is Diagnosed?
- 7 What Are The Treatment Options?
- 8 What Are Some Self-Help Strategies?
- 9 Conclusion
What Is A Hypomanic Episode?
Hypomanic is a term used to describe a state of mania that is less severe than full-blown mania. While people with hypomania may feel like they’re on top of the world, their behaviors can often be disruptive and destructive. It is described as a “mild” form of mania and can often be mistaken for simply being in a good mood.
A hypomanic episode is defined as a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood. The episode must last at least four (and, for children and adolescents, at least two) consecutive days. During this time, the person experiences an abnormal increase in energy levels, activity, and/or creativity.
A person with a hypomanic episode may have a decreased need for sleep and may feel very good, or “high.” They may also be more talkative than usual and have a hard time concentrating or slowing down. A hypomanic episode is not a mental illness on its own, but it can be a symptom of bipolar disorder.
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings. The low points are called depressions. And the high points are called either mania or hypomania, depending on how severe they are. Mania is more severe than hypomania and can include psychotic symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations.
What Are The Signs Of A Hypomanic Episode?
The signs and symptoms of a hypomanic episode are similar to those of mania, but they’re not as severe. They may include:
- feeling more energetic, productive, and creative than usual
- sleeping less than usual
- talking faster and thinking more quickly than usual
- having a shorter temper or feeling more irritable than usual
- feeling more self-confident and outgoing than usual
- behaving inappropriately, such as engaging in risky behavior or spending too much money
- jumping from one idea to another
- being easily distracted
- increased sex drive
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a mental health professional for an evaluation. They can determine if you have a hypomanic episode and provide treatment.
In fact, the symptoms of a hypomanic episode may be so mild that you don’t realize you’re experiencing one. However, a hypomanic episode can still have a major impact on your life. You should understand if you’re at risk for this condition and how to treat it.
What Causes Hypomanic Episodes?
There are several possible causes of hypomania. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to the condition. This means that it can run in families. Other possible causes include:
Brain injury or chemical imbalance
It is not uncommon for people who have suffered a brain injury to experience hypomania. This is because the injury can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain. More often, the injury will cause depression rather than hypomania. When a person experiences a hypomanic episode, it may be due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. The chemicals that are most often out of balance are serotonin and norepinephrine.
Certain medications
There are some medications that can cause a person to experience a hypomanic episode. These include:
- Antidepressants
- Stimulants
- Steroids
Some of these medications can cause the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to become imbalanced. This can lead to hypomania. In fact, it is believed that some people who experience a hypomanic episode do so because they are taking one of these medications.
However, it is important to note that not everyone who takes these medications will experience a hypomanic episode. The episodes are most likely to occur in people who have a history of mental illness.
Bipolar disorder
People with bipolar disorder are at risk of experiencing hypomanic episodes. This is because the condition is characterized by drastic mood swings. Moreover, bipolar disorder is often treated with medications that can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain. In fact, a hypomanic episode may be the first sign that a person has bipolar disorder. Moreover, people with bipolar disorder often experience depression, which can trigger a hypomanic episode.
Substance abuse
It is believed that substance abuse can trigger a hypomanic episode. This is because substances can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain. Moreover, people who abuse substances are often under a lot of stress. In fact, certain drug intake can lead to psychotic episodes. Therefore, it is important to get help if you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse.
Sleep deprivation
This is another major trigger for hypomanic episodes. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode. This means that your brain is on high alert and can lead to paranoia, delusions, and hallucinations. Sleep deprivation is the main trigger for mania in people with bipolar disorder. If you think you might be suffering from sleep deprivation, it’s important to see a doctor.
So, these are some of the major triggers for hypomanic episodes. If you or someone you know is struggling with any of these, it’s important to get help. Remember, you are not alone and there is help available.
How Does A Hypomanic Episode Different From Mania?
A hypomanic episode and mania are different in a few ways. Although both conditions are characterized by an abnormal mood state, a hypomanic episode is less severe than mania.
Here are a few differences between the two:
- A hypomanic episode usually lasts for four days or less. Whereas a manic episode can last for weeks or even months.
- Hypomania is characterized by less severe symptoms than mania. Such as less severe changes in sleep and energy levels, and less impaired judgment.
- People experiencing a hypomanic episode are still able to function, whereas those in a manic episode may not be.
- Hypomania may even be experienced as a “high” or as a period of intense creativity. Whereas mania is always experienced as a problem.
- Also, people with bipolar disorder who have hypomanic episodes are not typically psychotic. Whereas people in a manic episode may be.
The differences between the two conditions may seem small, but they’re important to keep in mind. If you think you or someone you know is experiencing a hypomanic episode, it’s important to seek help.
While a hypomanic episode is less severe than mania, it can still be disruptive and lead to problems. Left untreated, a hypomanic episode can progress to a manic episode. Moreover, a hypomanic episode can be a symptom of bipolar disorder.
If you think you’re experiencing a hypomanic episode, talk to your doctor or mental health professional. They can help you make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
What Are The Impacts Of A Hypomanic Episode?
The episodes of hypomania can have different impacts on your life, and these may be positive or negative. During a hypomanic episode, you may really enjoy yourself and feel great. You may find that you’re more productive than usual and get things done more quickly.
However, a hypomanic episode can also be problematic. You may find that you’re more impulsive and make decisions without thinking them through. It can also lead to some negative impacts. Some of these include:
- Poor decision-making
- Impulsive behavior
- Acting recklessly
- Relationship problems
- Financial problems
- Sleep problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Mania
While hypomania can have some negative impacts, it’s important to remember that it’s also a part of who you are. It’s not something that you can or should try to get rid of. But, there are things that you can do to manage it.
Also, keep in mind that not everyone who experiences a hypomanic episode will have all of the above symptoms. And, the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. If you’re concerned about your own mental health or think you may be experiencing a hypomanic episode, it’s important to talk to a mental health professional.
How It Is Diagnosed?
The diagnosis for a hypomanic episode is the same as for a manic episode. Methods for hypomanic episode diagnosis include:
- A physical exam to rule out other causes of your symptoms.
- A psychological evaluation.
- Blood tests to check for thyroid problems or other medical conditions that could be causing your symptoms.
- Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan if your doctor suspects you have a brain tumor or another medical condition.
These methods help your doctor rule out other possible causes of your symptoms and make a diagnosis. Moreover, your doctor may ask you questions about your family history, as a bipolar disorder often runs in families.
A diagnosis is really only made after a thorough evaluation. Your doctor will likely ask you questions about your mood, energy level, sleeping habits, and whether you have any thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. It’s important, to be honest with your doctor. So that they can make the best possible diagnosis and treatment plan for you.
Moreover, with the right diagnosis and treatment, you can live a full and healthy life. So, if you think you may be experiencing a hypomanic episode, talk to your doctor. They can help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need.
What Are The Treatment Options?
Treatment for a hypomanic episode is similar to treatment for bipolar disorder. The goal is to relieve symptoms and prevent future episodes. Treatment may include:
Psychotherapy
It is often helpful to see a therapist to talk about your symptoms and how they are affecting your life. A therapist can also help you develop coping skills. There are types of psychotherapy that are specifically for bipolar disorder. Such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT).
These two types of therapy are believed to work well for bipolar disorder. CBT helps you change thinking patterns that may contribute to your symptoms. IPSRT helps you stick to a daily routine, which can help stabilize your moods. Moreover, both can help you learn how to deal with stress in a healthier way.
You can try Mantra Care, it is a platform that helps you find a therapist that is right for you and provides CBT. The team of professionals at Mantra Care can also provide you with more information about bipolar disorder and its treatment. Book your free consultation today!
Medication
Medication for a hypomanic episode is prescribed in order to help stabilize your mood. The most common type of medication used to treat bipolar disorder is mood stabilizers. These include:
Antidepressants are also sometimes used, but they can sometimes trigger a switch into mania. If you have bipolar disorder and your doctor prescribes an antidepressant. So, people with hypomanic episodes are usually prescribed mood stabilizers.
Hospitalization (in severe cases)
This option is very costly and not always necessary. If you are a danger to yourself or others, however, it may be the best option. Inpatient treatment can help you get your symptoms under control and stabilize your mood.
You will be closely monitored by a team of mental health professionals who can help you get back on track. Moreover, hospitalization is a good option if you do not have a support system at home. If you are not in danger of harming yourself or others, there are other treatment options available.
These are some of the most common treatment options for a hypomanic episode. Moreover, there are many resources available to help you deal with this condition. With the proper treatment, you can get your life back on track. If you think you may be experiencing a hypomanic episode, it is important to seek professional help.
What Are Some Self-Help Strategies?
Self-help is really essential when it comes to managing hypomania. Some things that you can do to help yourself are:
Keep a mood diary
A mood diary is a great way to keep track of your moods and their triggers. This can help you identify patterns and find ways to avoid or manage your triggers. More often, this diary is used in conjunction with therapy. This is like a journal, but with more focus on your mental state. You can track your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to help you understand your patterns.
Stick to a routine
Routine is really important for people with bipolar disorder. It can help to stabilize your mood and give you a sense of control. Having a set schedule for sleeping, eating, and taking medications can make a big difference. In fact, in regular life, maintaining your routine is important for everyone. But when you have bipolar disorder, it can be even more crucial.
Exercise
Exercise is a great way to improve your mood and overall health. It can help to reduce stress, improve sleep, and increase energy levels. Even if you don’t feel like it, try to get some exercise every day. It really does make a difference. Moreover, exercise can be a great way to meet new friends and socialize, which is important for people with bipolar disorder.
Talk to someone you trust
When you’re feeling hypomanic, it’s important to talk to someone you trust. This can be a friend, family member, therapist, or doctor. Talking about what you’re feeling can help you feel better and may even prevent a full-blown manic episode. Also, sharing your feelings is a good way to develop a support system. These people can offer you practical and emotional support when you need it.
Take breaks
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t focus, take a break. This can be anything from taking a walk outside to listening to music. Taking some time for yourself can help you relax and recharge. When you’re feeling better, you can go back to what you were doing.
Stay focused on your treatment
This is often easier said than done, but it’s important to stick with your treatment plan. This may include taking medication, going to therapy, and attending support groups. Treatment can be difficult, but it’s worth it. Remember, you deserve to feel better. It is actually possible to live a happy and healthy life with bipolar disorder.
So, these self-help strategies are really important in managing hypomania. But, if you feel like you can’t do it alone, please seek professional help. Hypomania can be a very serious condition and it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible. In fact, even if you are taking professional help, self-help is always a great complement. So, don’t forget to take care of yourself!
Conclusion
Conclusively, a hypomanic episode is a period of abnormally high energy levels and mood. It can be a symptom of underlying mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder. If you think you may be experiencing a hypomanic episode, it’s important to seek professional help.
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
