WHAT ARE MANIA AND HYPOMANIA?
Mania is the “high” behavior that is part of bipolar disorder; hypomania is the “low.” A person with bipolar disorder alternates between extremes of mania (highs) and depression (lows). When a person is manic, he/she is likely to exhibit the following kinds of behavior: • High levels of physical and mental energy • A very positive mood, with marked talkativeness and sociability • Extreme self-confidence • Extreme aggression • Agitation and irritability • Distorted thinking, with delusions • Racing thoughts and speech • Little need for sleep; staying awake for long periods without tiring • Marked distractibility; tendency to be difficult to follow and to go off on tangents • Impulsive or reckless behavior; tendency to show bad judgment • Strange or bizarre dress • Hallucinations The behavior of a person in the manic phase of bipolar disorder can place him/her in extreme danger. Spending money wildly can result in severe financial consequences for the person and his/her family. Some pati
