what is mania?

Mania is a distinct mental state that only occurs in Bipolar I Disorder and Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Type. It’s not just “being hyper” or “in a really good mood,”  it’s a serious and often overwhelming experience that can come with severe, life-altering consequences if left untreated.

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Mania is a period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood that lasts at least a week (or less if hospitalization is needed). It usually comes with:

• A powerful sense of energy, euphoria, or irritability

• Racing thoughts and rapid, pressured speech

• A decreased need for sleep (like sleeping 2 hours and feeling fine)

• Impulsive or reckless behavior (spending sprees, risky sex, drug use)

• Inflated self-esteem, grandiosity, or a belief in special abilities

• In more severe cases, psychosis — hallucinations or delusions

Mania can feel euphoric, but it can also be terrifying — and it can lead to damaged relationships, financial loss, legal issues, hospitalization, and deep emotional fallout once the episode ends.

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• Bipolar I Disorder involves at least one manic episode (with or without depression).

• Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar Type involves mood episodes (mania or depression) plus psychotic symptoms that can occur even outside of mood episodes.

Mania is not part of Bipolar II — people with Bipolar II experience hypomania, which is similar but less intense and does not involve psychosis or the same level of impairment.

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It’s not just a “good mood.”
It’s not just “extra energy.”
It’s not always fun — and it’s not something people can simply control.

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When the episode ends, many people crash: emotionally, physically, or both. They may feel shame, confusion, or depression, and often have to face the reality of what happened while they were manic.

Mania doesn’t make someone dangerous or broken. It’s a syndrome of mental illness that deserves understanding and support, not stigma. If you or someone you care about is struggling with manic symptoms, know that help exists, and healing is possible.