Hypomania & Omega-3

Hypomania is encompassed by a broader disorder called "Bipolar II." In this variation, patients experience highs and lows in terms of mood, but not to the extent of a full depressive or manic episode. The "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" describes hypomania as, "a distinct period of persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, lasting throughout at least four days, that is clearly different from the usual non-depressed mood." The patient does not become psychotic or lose functionality. Despite the less severe symptomology, scientists still remain interested in the role of nutrients -- such as omega-3 -- in the disorder.

Preventive Use of Omega-3

In 2010, researchers at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine examined risk factors for all forms of bipolar disorder that often show up during adolescence. They found that youths who were vulnerable for the mood disorder had a first-degree relative with depression, high levels of stress, and certain nutritional deficiencies, including low omega-3 fatty acids. Their conclusions, which were published in the a 2010 edition of the "CNS Drugs" journal, suggest that since the signs of bipolar often predate the actually onset by 10 years, a supplement of omega-3, as well as behavioral therapies, may offer protection.

The Role of Omega-3 in Mood Disorders

Various clinical research has validated the role of omega-3 fatty acids and essential fish oils in the development of depression. Researchers in Israel were interested to see if this correlation existed in bipolar disorder II as well. In their study, which was published in a 2005 edition of the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry," the scientists treated 12 bipolar patients with 1 1/2 to 2 g of omega-3 fatty acid daily for six months. At the end of the treatment time frame, the patients had lower scores on measures of depression and none had developed hypomania.

The Relationship is Complicated: A Case Study Example

In 1999, Dr. Gustavo Kinrys at the Mayo Clinic presented a case in the "Archives of General Psychiatry" that detailed the role of omega-3 fatty acids in hypomania. Though the article is more than a decade old, it remains well-regarded because it is a clear example of how the story of omega-3 and hypomania is far from simple. Kinrys tells how the patient, who tried to medicate her depression with omega-3, developed hypomanic signs of elated mood, increased flirtation with men and grandiose ideation after taking the compound for five days. When her doctors discontinued the omega-3s, her behavior returned to baseline after two days. Kinrys uses this case a warning that the role of omega-3 in hypomania is not well understood.

Treatment Implications

At the time of this publication in June 2011, the role of omega-3 fatty acids in hyomania is not well understood. However, the FDA has approved various medications for the treatment of Bipolar II disorder. An individual with this disorder should meet with his psychiatrist to discuss the proper treatment regimen of medicinal, nutritional and behavioral components.