Bipolar Disorder: Hypomanic Episodes Hypomanic episodes can
occur in people who have mood disorders. Hypomanic episodes are
less severe than manic episodes, although a hypomanic episode
can still interfere with your ability to function properly.
Hypomania may be diagnosed if: - A distinct period of elevated
or irritable mood occurs in which the mood is clearly different
from a regular nondepressed mood. - Three or more of the
following symptoms last for a significant period of time: -
Inflated self-esteem or unrealistic feelings of importance -
Decreased need for sleep (feels rested after only a few hours of
sleep) - Racing thoughts or flight of ideas - Being easily
distracted - An increase in goal-directed activity (work or
personal) - Irresponsible behaviors that may have serious
consequences, such as going on shopping sprees, engaging in
increased sexual activity, or making foolish business
investments - The mood or behavior change is noticeable to
others. - The episode is not severe enough to cause impair