Hypomania is a symptom associated with bipolar disorder, a mental health condition. The term hypomania is used to describe the presence of at least three specific symptoms that are characterized as less severe than bipolar disorder symptoms. Episodes of hypomania typically persist for at least four days, explains the online mental health network Psych Central.
Elevated Self-esteem
People who have hypomania often exhibit high levels of confidence or self-esteem during hypomanic episodes. Such symptoms can cause patients to appear excessively giddy, happy, elated or self-absorbed. A patient may also feel more creative or more powerful during such episodes.
Pleasure-seeking
During episodes of hypomania, patients often pursue pleasurable activities that involve sexual, business or monetary opportunities. Typically, such activities involve a high risk of negative consequences, such as increased debt or regrettable sexual indiscretions.
More Talkative
A person with hypomania may become more talkative than usual. Certain people may feel a need to keep talking, even in situations where such behavior is inappropriate, such as a business meeting.
Easily Distracted
Hypomania can cause patients to appear easily distracted. It can be difficult for patients to complete responsibilities associated with work or school because of a decreased ability to focus on specific tasks as usual. Patients can be distracted by insignificant matters, such as a tear in a piece of paper or the color of the pen used to complete a written assignment.
Decreased Need for Sleep
Patients with hypomania may feel well-rested after only a small amount of sleep. These patients, explains Psych Central, can appear to function normally even if they get as little as three hours of sleep each night.
Increased Goal-oriented Activity
A patient with hypomania may exhibit an increase in goal-oriented activity associated with work or school pursuits. Patients may become uncharacteristically motivated to complete projects or assignments that were previously neglected. Certain patients may become focused on sexually-driven opportunities, such as finding a date or engaging in sexual activities.
Increased Energy Levels
A hypomanic person often displays abnormally high levels of energy during episodes of hypomania. Patients can appear hyper, excited or euphoric and may frequently experience racing thoughts or ideas. Such symptoms of hypomania typically last for several days, only to be followed by behavioral changes marked by irritability, anger or intolerance.
