Mania is a psychological state characterized by periods of extremely elevated mood, energy, and activity levels, often associated with bipolar disorder. It’s a complex condition that affects your thought patterns, judgment, and behavior in ways that can be tremendously disruptive.
Mania Symptoms
Mania is a dramatic departure from your usual mood, which may cause you to experience unusually high physical and mental activity levels. A manic episode can last for a week or more, with symptoms like these.
- Unreasonable euphoria: Intense feelings of joy that are disproportionate to the circumstances.
- Hyperactivity: A dramatically increased activity level, often with a reduced need for sleep.
- Racing thoughts: Your train of thought may jump rapidly from one idea to the next.
- Delusions of grandeur: Believing you have exceptional abilities, wealth, or importance.
- Impulsivity and risk-taking: Engaging in risky behaviors without considering the potential consequences.
- Perceptual disturbances: In some cases, you may hallucinate during a manic episode.
The Dangers of Mania
Mania can lead to behaviors that are potentially harmful to yourself and those around you, like neglecting your basic needs, having unprotected sex, or spending a lot of money.
The intensity of manic episodes can vary, but mania often requires intervention to prevent harm and manage symptoms. Though manic episodes can be unpredictable, you can keep track of your mood to anticipate when it might change. Knowing your triggers is another strategy for lessening the effects of mania.
Causes and Treatments
While manic episodes are most common in people living with bipolar disorder, there are also other causes for these extreme changes in behavior and mood, including brain injuries, seasonal affective disorder, postpartum psychosis, schizoaffective disorder, and cyclothymia. Mania can also be a side effect of drug and alcohol use.
You may be more likely to develop mania if mental health disorders run in your family or you are struggling to cope with an unusually high amount of stress.
Effectively managing mania typically involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle adjustments. For example, your doctor may prescribe you a mood stabilizer or antipsychotic medication to control your symptoms. Maintaining a consistent schedule, getting enough sleep, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine can keep you on a stable track.
Managing Your Mental Health
Mania is a serious psychological condition that requires understanding and careful management. You can lead a healthier, more stable life by recognizing the signs of mania and seeking appropriate treatment at Palm Springs Behavioral Health. Reach out today to get the quality care you deserve from our leading, science-based bipolar treatment center.
