Mania

People who suffer from a manic-depressive disease get both depression and mania. Depression and mania often interchange, and you will have been manic or hypomaniac during at least one period of your life.

Mania is almost the opposite of depression. During manic episodes you might find that you:

• are in an exaggerated good mood
• are full of energy
• are hyperactive
• can't concentrate
• lack a sense of occasion
• talk incessantly
• are unrealistic and overestimate yourself
• get ideas and numerous new whims
• are incapable of putting your plans into practice
• are uninhibited and irresponsible with an increased self-esteem
• have an increased sexual drive and a reduced sleep requirement
• do things by accident, which you regret when the mania has passed

Hypomania

Hypomania is a condition which is marked by milder manic symptoms but without being an actual mania. If you are hypermaniac, your mood is high and you also

• have an increased activity or feel restless
• have an increased need to speak or buy things
• have an increased interest in sex
• have a decreased requirement for sleep

You can appear communicative but also be confused and unable to concentrate.