L’ipomania leads people to experience sudden mood changes. They experience it bipolar patients when they are in the up phase, which however with this disease alternate with down moments. In practice, those who suffer from bipolar disorder also have down moments.
The hypomanic, on the other hand, has a very high mood, with excitement, optimism and the ability to work or study for many hours at a time. Be careful, we are not talking about a person full of energy, extremely positive who always sees the glass full.
What are the symptoms of hypomania?
In hypomania the mood changes unjustifiably and in any case excessive compared to the circumstances of reality. Often these are people who can fascinate with their explosive energy, or be annoying for the same reason.
This condition can last from as little as three days to many weeks. The main symptoms are:
high self-esteem, to the point of excess, accelerated thinking, logorrhea, disinhibition, reduced need for sleep, poor concentration ability, accompanied however by the possibility of working or studying for hours, risky behaviour, psychomotor agitation, participation in dangerous situations.
What are the causes?
Science is still investigating the causes of hypomania, like those of the bipolar spectrum disorders of which it is part. We know that heredity plays an important role. Often a prolonged period of stress can lead to the manifestation of symptoms. Also resting little and badly can increase the risk. Some studies have highlighted alterations in the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.
Risk factors for hypomania
Drug abuse such as cocaine, amphetamine and cannabinoids or alcohol can induce this psychological condition. Since even the antidepressants they act on serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, they can also play a role in hypomania. The most “risky” in this sense are tricyclics and noradrenergic reuptake inhibitors.
Hypomania: what are the therapies?
There are several therapeutic possibilities. There are mood stabilizing medications that must be accompanied by psychotherapy. Resting well and carrying out regular physical activity are important adjuvants.
SOURCE: Manual MSD