Mania

Mania

An illustration symbolizing the distorted perception often seen in mania.

Mania is a state of abnormally elevated arousal, affect, and energy level, or "a state of heightened overall activation with enhanced affective expression together with lability of affect." Although mania is often conceived as a "mirror image" to depression, the heightened mood can be either euphoric or irritable, and indeed, as the mania progresses, irritability can become more prominent and result in violence or anxiety.

Symptoms

Mania is characterized by a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy. The symptoms of mania can include:

• Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
• Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood
• Extreme irritability
• Racing thoughts and talking very fast, jumping from one idea to another
• Distractibility, inability to concentrate well
• Little need for sleep
• Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
• Poor judgment
• Spending sprees
• Increased sexual drive
• Abuse of drugs, particularly cocaine, alcohol, and sleeping medications
• Provocative, intrusive, or aggressive behavior

Causes

The exact cause of mania is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Mania is often associated with bipolar disorder, where individuals experience episodes of mania and depression. Other potential causes include:

• Genetics: A family history of bipolar disorder or other mood disorders can increase the risk of developing mania.
• Neurotransmitter imbalances: Abnormal levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine may contribute to mania.
• Stress: High levels of stress or traumatic events can trigger manic episodes in susceptible individuals.
• Substance abuse: The use of drugs or alcohol can precipitate or exacerbate manic episodes.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of mania is primarily clinical, based on the history and presentation of symptoms. It is important to differentiate mania from other psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides criteria for diagnosing mania, which include the presence of elevated mood and increased activity or energy lasting at least one week, along with three or more additional symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment for mania typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. The primary goal is to stabilize the mood and prevent future episodes. Common treatments include:

• Mood stabilizers: Medications such as lithium, valproate, and carbamazepine are often used to control manic episodes.
• Antipsychotics: Atypical antipsychotics like olanzapine, risperidone, and quetiapine can be effective in managing mania.
• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of therapy can help individuals manage symptoms and develop coping strategies.
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular sleep patterns, stress management, and avoiding drugs and alcohol can help prevent manic episodes.

Related pages

• Bipolar disorder
• Depression
• Schizophrenia
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder