Mania

People who have bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disease) suffer from both depression and mania. In bipolar disorder, depression and mania often interchange, and you would have been manic or hypomaniac in at least one period of your life.

Mania is almost the opposite of depression. During manic episodes you might find that you:

• are in an extremely good mood
• are full of energy
• are hyperactive
• can't concentrate
• lack a sense of occasion
• talk incessantly
• are unrealistic and overestimate yourself
• get ideas and numerous new whims
• are incapable of putting your plans into practice
• are uninhibited and irresponsible with an increased self-esteem
• have an increased sexual drive and a reduced sleep requirement
• do things by accident, which you regret when the mania has passed

Hypomania

Hypomania is a condition which is marked by milder manic symptoms but without having an actual manic episode. If you are hypomaniac, your mood is high and you also

• have an increased activity or feel restless
• have an increased need to speak or buy things
• have an increased interest in sex
• have a decreased requirement for sleep

You can appear communicative but may also be confused and unable to concentrate.