Hypomania is a mild to moderate form of mania, a psychological disorder where the patient has an elevated mood and high energy. During hypomania, patients can participate in risky activities, get little sleep and seem easily distracted. Patients who have both hypomania and depression are classified with bipolar II disorder.
Inflated Self-Esteem
During hypomania, patients will have an inflated sense of self-esteem. They will feel exceptionally confident and believe that they can accomplish anything. Patients can also be unusually friendly, according to the article "Hypomania" by the British organization Mind, and will seek out strangers.
Mood Rise
A euphoric mood is one of the most identifiable signs of hypomania. Patients will appear to be very happy and excitable, and feel invincible. However, a hypomanic's mood can shift quickly. According to "Hypomania," the patient can be in a euphoric mood for a few days, then switch to irritability, intolerance and rage.
Energy Increase
In addition to an elevated mood, hypomanic patients also have an increased level of energy, which can add to the lack of need for sleep. During this time, patients will have increased activity, productivity and creativity.
Sleep Problems
Sleep problems are common during periods of hypomania. Patients will feel a need for less sleep, or will feel rested after only a few hours of sleep.
Concentration Lag
Hypomanic patients will have problems with concentration. They will feel like they are full of ideas or racing thoughts. Patients will also easily distracted when talking or working on a task.
Talkativeness
Being incredibly talkative is another sign of hypomania. Patients will feel like they need to keep talking or feel that they cannot stop talking; they may jump into other conversations.
Participation in Dangerous Activity
During cycles of hypomania, patients may participate in pleasurable activities that have dangerous consequences, such as risky sex or daredevil stunts. Hypomanic patients may not realize the activities they are participating in are dangerous until they cycle out of hypomania.
