Bipolar Mania and Hypomania Treatment, Counseling and Therapy Programs

Manic episodes and hypomanic episodes both fall within the category of bipolar-related disorders, but they are associated with different mental health conditions. Manic episodes are present in bipolar I disorder, and hypomanic episodes occur in bipolar II and cyclothymic disorder. A key difference between mania vs hypomania is the intensity of the symptoms, and the level of distress they cause.

Hypomania can lead to an increased energy; however, this change can lead to increased productivity without causing disruption to your life. There is often a notable decrease for sleep, though not as significant as we see with manic episodes. Treatment for mania and hypomania may be similar, depending on the severity of symptoms. Hypomania may not require the intensity of a full-time treatment program, whereas manic episodes often do. Some are able to engage in outpatient treatment for their symptoms, including counseling services and psychiatric care. This differs from treating severe mania in bipolar disorder, which often requires hospitalization and the use of mood stabilizers for mania symptoms.

Bipolar mania symptoms can vary from person to person. This can include what symptoms you experience and their severity. These variations contribute to the differences we seen in mania treatment options. Common symptoms present among those experiencing manic episodes include:

• Extreme mood swing: Individuals commonly experience an elevated mood in mania which can feel great and even euphoric. Bipolar manic depression commonly follows manic episodes and can include intense feelings of sadness, helplessness, and hopelessness. Shifts between the highs and lows of bipolar disorder can be unpredictable and occur in short periods of time.
• Social withdrawal: Those experiencing a manic episode may distance themselves from others. They may not attend events and gatherings that they usually do, and reach out to family and friends less. This can be the result of active symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.
• Decline in academic or work performance: Manic behavior and decision making can affect a person’s productivity and focus at work or school. This can lead to missed assignments or tasks, and a loss of interest in related duties or responsibilities.
• Substance abuse: It is not uncommon for those experiencing manic symptoms to misuse or abuse drugs and alcohol. This can be a combined effect of risk-taking behavior in mania, poor judgement, and an attempt to cope with the emotional challenges associated with this emotional state. Substance use can interfere with your functioning and make it challenging to manage daily responsibilities.
• Risky or impulsive behaviors: Common examples of impulsive behaviors in mania include driving recklessly, substance use, unsafe sex, and impulsive spending. You may find yourself engaging in behaviors without thinking of the potential consequences. Some decisions can be dangerous and put you in harms way. 
• Inability to focus or concentrate: Other signs of mania include poor concentration and a decreased ability to focus. You may notice that work, school, and in your personal life. You may be more distractable than usual, or be forgetful throughout the day. It can be hard to stay on task and be organized.
• Erratic sleep patterns: You may also experience a decreased need for sleep in a manic episode. This can lead to erratic sleep behaviors, such as sleeping at unusual times. You may also find it challenging to fall asleep and stay asleep, or feel restless despite having an adequate amount of sleep.
• Increased aggression or hostility: Signs of mania can include aggression and hostility that is out of character for you. This can include arguments and confrontations, often resulting from a heightened sensitivity to irritations and frustration. This can affect relationships with those around you.
• Frequent feelings of anxiety or panic: You may find yourself experiencing racing thoughts and feeling on edge during a manic episode. This can include a persistent or overwhelming fear, and physical symptoms of anxiety. Shortness of breath, tightness in your chest, and panic attacks can occur.
• Depression or persistent sadness: Manic episodes are often followed by major depression episodes. This can include prolonged periods of hopelessness and feeling down, as well as a lacking motivation. Some experience emotional numbness, and isolate from their family and friends. Psychiatric care may be necessary depending on the severity of your depressive symptoms.

Bipolar disorder manic phase treatment programs focus on providing you with structured care, targeting your specific symptoms. This can combine the use of talk therapy, educational sessions, life-style changes, and the use of mood stabilizers for mania symptom management. Your treatment will focus on stabilizing your mood and reducing the presence of manic symptoms and behaviors.

Mania treatment options can help you find your natural balance, and work towards preventing future episodes. Educational sessions can help you learn to pick up on early signs of mania, so that you can reach out for help before they develop into full-blown mania symptoms. Medication management services can aide in reducing future episodes by stabilizing your moods. Inpatient and outpatient bipolar mania treatment can incorporate family involvement so your loved ones have a better understanding of manic episodes and bipolar disorder. Continued support is generally recommended for those living with bipolar disorder and can include mental health counseling and medication management services.