A Manic Episode typically involves a distinct period of abnormally elevated or expansive mood. The elevated mood may be described as euphoric, unusually good, cheerful or high. It is often characterized by a sudden period of extreme enthusiasm for social or work interactions. Although it might superficially seem a positive mood state, it is usually recognized as excessive or ‘out of character’ by those who know the individual well. In some cases the mood may be better described as irritability. The individual may become particularly irritable if their enthusiastically pursued desires are thwarted in some way.

In technical terms, a Manic Episode is only diagnosed when the individual has several symptoms in addition to the mood disturbance described above. The sufferer must have at least three additional symptoms from a list that includes:

• Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity
   

• Decreased need for sleep
   

• More talkative than usual
   

• Racing thoughts
   

• Distractibility
   

• Increase in activities directed at work or social goals, or agitation
   

• Excessive involvement in pleasurable activities with potential negative consequences (eg. sudden, large, foolish investments or going on spending sprees etc)

Many people reading this list might think they meet the criteria for a Manic Episode. However, it is important to note that before a diagnosis of Manic Episode can be given, it must be established that the disturbance is sufficiently severe to cause ‘marked impairment’ with normal social or occupational functioning, or to require hospitalization. (Without this feature the individual can, at most, be said to suffer from a “Hypomanic” episode – in other words, a lesser form of mania). A full-blown Manic Episode is much more than simply having a cheerful, high mood and lots of energy and enthusiasm for a week or two!

Sometimes the sufferer will seem to meet the criteria for BOTH a Major Depressive Episode (see Depression) and a Manic Episode nearly every day for a substantial period of time. The individual may experience rapidly alternating moods (from deep sadness to euphoria to irritability) across the course of each day, along with the full range of other symptoms of depression and mania. Such individuals are typically said to be experiencing a “Mixed Episode".