Mania is a condition in which you have a period of abnormally elevated, extreme changes in your mood or emotions, energy level or activity level. This highly energized level of physical and mental activity and behavior must be a change from your usual self and be noticeable by others.

What are the symptoms of mania?

• Having an abnormally high level of activity or energy.

• Feeling extremely happy or excited — even euphoric.

• Not sleeping or only getting a few hours of sleep but still feeling rested.

• Having inflated self-esteem, thinking you’re invincible.

• Being more talkative than usual. Talking so much and so fast that others can’t interrupt.

• Having racing thoughts — having lots of thoughts on lots of topics at the same time (called a “flight of ideas”).

• Being easily distracted by unimportant or unrelated things.

• Being obsessed with and completely absorbed in an activity.

• Displaying purposeless movements, such as pacing around your home or office or fidgeting when you’re sitting.

• Showing impulsive behavior that can lead to poor choices, such as buying sprees, reckless sex or foolish business investments.

Managing Mania

Medication

• Mood Stabilizers: Lithium is a commonly prescribed mood stabilizer for managing manic episodes.

• Anticonvulsants: Medications like valproate (Depakote), lamotrigine (Lamictal), and carbamazepine (Tegretol) are also used to stabilize mood.

• Antipsychotics: Atypical antipsychotics such as olanzapine (Zyprexa), risperidone (Risperdal), and quetiapine (Seroquel) can help control manic symptoms.

• Benzodiazepines: These may be used short-term to help with agitation and sleep disturbances.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals recognize and change harmful thought patterns and behaviors.

• Psychoeducation: Educating individuals and families about the disorder, symptoms, and treatment strategies.

• Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT): Focuses on stabilizing daily routines and improving interpersonal relationships.

Lifestyle and Self-Care Strategies

• Regular Sleep Schedule: Maintaining a consistent sleep routine can help regulate mood.

• Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition supports overall well-being and brain health.

• Avoiding Stimulants: Limiting caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs to prevent exacerbating symptoms.

• Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress and improve mood stability.

• Monitoring Mood: Keeping a mood diary to track changes and identify potential triggers.