Hüpomaania

Hüpomaania is a milder form of mania, a mood state characterized by elevated mood, increased energy, and reduced need for sleep. It is a core feature of bipolar II disorder, where individuals experience distinct episodes of hypomania and major depression. Unlike full-blown mania, hypomanic episodes are not severe enough to cause marked impairment in social or occupational functioning, nor do they typically necessitate hospitalization. Individuals experiencing hypomania may feel unusually happy, optimistic, or irritable. They might engage in more social activities, be more talkative, and experience a surge in productivity or creativity. Their thoughts may race, and they might feel more confident than usual. However, these elevated states can also lead to impulsive behavior, such as excessive spending or engaging in risky activities, although these consequences are generally less severe than those seen in mania. The duration of hypomanic episodes can range from a few days to several weeks. It is crucial to distinguish hypomania from periods of normal elevated mood or high energy, as the presence of distinct hypomanic episodes, alongside depressive episodes, defines bipolar II disorder and requires appropriate management.