Hypomane

Hypomane, or hypomania, refers to a mood state that is similar to mania but milder in severity. It is a term used in clinical and psychiatric literature to describe a period of elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and heightened activity that is noticeable to others but does not cause the marked impairment or need for hospitalization seen in full mania. The term hypomane is sometimes used as an alternative or historical variant of hypomania.

A hypomanic episode is defined by a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and increased activity or energy lasting at least four consecutive days. During this time, four or more symptoms are present nearly every day, such as pressured speech, racing thoughts, distractibility, inflated self-esteem or grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, increased goal-directed activity, or engaging in risky behaviors. The episode represents a change in functioning that is observable by others but is not severe enough to cause marked impairment in social or occupational functioning and does not involve psychosis or require hospitalization. Mania, by contrast, lasts at least one week (or shorter if hospitalization is needed) and often includes greater impairment or psychotic features.

Hypomania commonly occurs within bipolar II disorder and, less frequently, in cyclothymic disorder. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, neurochemical changes affecting dopamine and other neurotransmitters, sleep disturbance, stress, and certain substances or medications that can precipitate elevated mood.

Treatment aims to stabilize mood and prevent cycling between mania and depression. Common approaches include mood stabilizers (such as lithium or valproate), anticonvulsants or atypical antipsychotics, psychotherapy, and lifestyle interventions that emphasize regular sleep and stress management.