Explain Hypomania

Hypomania is a symptom rather than a disease. It's normally a symptom of bipolar disorder, in which a person goes up into a manic phase and then crashes down into a depressive phase. However, not everyone with bipolar disorder goes through hypomania. Hypomania also can be a negative symptom of starting a new prescription drug.

Common Symptoms

• People in hypomanic episodes usually feel great or irritable because nothing's moving fast enough. They are full of ideas and energy and may act impulsively or have trouble sleeping.

Time Frame

• According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV), these symptoms need to last at least four days in a row in order for the condition to be diagnosed as hypomania.

Misconception

• Unlike other types of manic episodes, people experiencing hypomania do not hallucinate or hear voices and are not considered dangerous to others.

Considerations

• Drugs that affect brain chemistry, such as antidepressants, can sometimes trigger a hypomanic episode, even if the person is not bipolar.

Speculation

• It is unknown what triggers a hypomanic episode, but some theories include a combination of stress and genetic factors.