Mania: Meaning, Causes, Signs, Symptoms & Treatments

Many people think that being in a state of mania just means someone is very happy or has a lot of energy. While it might look like excitement on the surface, it is actually a very serious change in how the brain works.

It is not just about a good mood; it can completely change a person’s personality and how they see the world. Understanding what this state really feels like helps us support those who are going through it. It is an intense experience that requires patience and professional care to manage safely.

What is Mania?

Mania is a serious psychological state where a person’s mood and energy levels become dangerously elevated. During a manic episode, a person experiences inflated self-esteem and a decreased need for sleep. This high energy often leads to racing thoughts and an unusual sense of power or confidence.

Ms. Lovleena Sharma, a clinical psychologist at BetterPlace, explains that mania is characterized by two distinct phases—a high phase and a low phase. She notes that while an excited person might stay in a high mood for just a few hours, a manic episode is much more persistent. These episodes can last for days or even weeks.

The main difference lies in the level of control a person has over their actions. Ms. Lovleena points out that a person who is simply excited remains in control of themselves. In contrast, someone in a manic state often loses control over their behaviours. This loss of judgment frequently causes serious problems and impairs both their personal and professional life. Because the physical and mental toll of this high energy is so extreme, professional medical intervention is usually necessary to help the person return to a stable state.

Understanding the Three Primary Stages of Mania

Stage 1: Hypomania

Hypomania is the most deceptive stage because the person can feel very energetic and full of life during this phase. They might feel very creative and productive, however, Ms. Lovleena warns that in hypomania, depressive episodes are guaranteed to follow. There is no full-blown mania at this stage, but if the person stops adhering to treatment because they feel “fine,” those depressive symptoms will eventually start disrupting their life.

Stage 2: Acute Mania

This is where the situation becomes much more serious. The person’s judgment starts to fail. They might spend huge amounts of money they do not have or start business plans that make no sense. Their thoughts move so fast that it becomes hard for others to follow what they are saying.

Stage 3: Delirious Mania

This is the most severe stage and it is a medical emergency. The person may lose touch with reality entirely. They might see things that are not there or fail to recognize their own family members. This stage is rare but very dangerous, almost always requiring a stay in the hospital to keep the person safe.

Related Read: Different Stages of Mania Explained

Types and Manifestations of Mania

1. Classic Bipolar Mania

This is the most well-known type, but its manifestation differs across Bipolar I and Bipolar II. Ms. Lovleena notes that Bipolar I is generally more chronic than Bipolar II.

• Bipolar I: Involves at least one full manic episode. Symptoms are severe, including poor judgment, risky behaviour, and racing thoughts that may require hospitalization. Depressive episodes can happen alongside these manic peaks.
• Bipolar II: Characterized by hypomanic episodes. The person can often function as normal and feels more productive. Psychosis is absent, and hospitalization is rare, but depressive episodes are guaranteed.

2. Hypomania

Some people actually like this stage because they feel confident and powerful. This is a trap. Ms. Lovleena points out that people with hypomania initially feel they are getting better, so they often drop out of therapy. They only realize later that the inconsistency is disrupting their lives.

3. Mixed Episodes

A mixed episode is a dangerous state where high energy meets deep sadness. Ms. Lovleena explains that these episodes are volatile; people react impulsively, feel overwhelmed, and experience intense agitation. You might see “flamboyant” lifestyles or increased spending combined with an inability to focus or sleep. Because the person has the physical energy to act on dark, depressive thoughts, the risk for self-harm is very high.

4. Rapid Cycling Mania

If a person has four or more mood shifts in a single year, it is called rapid cycling. Ms. Lovleena identifies several triggers for these rapid shifts:

• Sleep: Staying up late or having an irregular sleep schedule.
• Life Stressors: Deadlines, pressure, and relationship conflicts.
• Biology: Hormonal shifts, such as those during puberty.
• Substances: Alcohol and drug intake.

5. Psychotic Mania

In this state, the person experiences delusions. They might believe they have magic powers or are a famous person from history. This type of mania requires special medicine to help the brain return to reality.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Genetic Factors
  Mania causes are often found in a person’s DNA. If a parent or sibling has bipolar disorder, you are more likely to have it too. However, genes are only part of the story; environment determines if those genes are “switched on.”
• Brain Chemistry
  When chemicals like dopamine and serotonin get out of balance, they can push the brain into a manic state. Medications that stabilize these levels are essential for recovery.
• Environmental Triggers and Substance Use
  Ms. Lovleena emphasizes that stress, pressure, and major life changes, like relationship discord or career deadlines, contribute significantly to manic episodes. Additionally, substance use, including alcohol and drug intake, can trigger mania or cause rapid cycling between high and low phases.

Treatment Options

Medications

Lithium is the most common medicine used to treat this condition, alongside anticonvulsants. These mood stabilizers work to balance the neurochemicals in the brain and bring the brain back to a steady state.

Psychotherapy

Talk therapy helps people learn the early warning signs of an episode. Ms. Lovleena notes the importance of consistency here; even when you feel “cured” during a high phase, staying in therapy is vital to prevent the inevitable depressive crash.

Hospitalization

Ms. Lovleena states that hospitalization becomes necessary if there is heightened energy that the family cannot manage, or if the episode is accompanied by psychosis. If the person is a threat to themselves or others, a hospital provides a safe, monitored environment for rest and medication adjustment.

Lifestyle Strategies

• Stick to a strict sleep schedule: Irregular sleep is a massive trigger.
• Maintain a routine: Structure protects the brain from shifting states.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs: These substances directly interfere with mood stability.
• Manage stress: Be mindful of deadlines and relationship pressure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a manic episode occur without bipolar disorder? Yes. Medical issues like thyroid problems, brain injuries, or medications like steroids can cause manic symptoms. Ms. Lovleena also notes that substance-induced mania from drugs or alcohol can mirror these episodes.

How long does a typical manic episode last? Ms. Lovleena explains that manic episodes can last for days or weeks. Without treatment, they can stretch for three to six months, but the right care can shorten them significantly.

What should family members do during an episode? Stay calm and do not argue. Ms. Lovleena notes that in mania, the person does not have control over their behaviours. Watch for dangerous signs like flamboyant spending or fighting. If the energy becomes unmanageable or psychosis appears, seek professional help immediately.