Managing a Manic Episode

What are signs of a manic episode?

Susan Panico - Director of the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association - talks about the impact bipolar had on her life.

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You or your child with bipolar disorder may have unique manic behaviors that are identifiable. Family and friends can help identify other manic behaviors that you or your child with this condition exhibit. General behaviors associated with a manic episode include:

An abnormally happy, irritable, or energetic mood. Other characteristics that often occur with this mood include:
- Unrealistic feelings of self-importance.
- A decreased need for sleep.
- Increased talkativeness.
- Racing thoughts.
- Being easily distracted by things that are not important.
  An intense focus on reaching a goal.
- Dangerous or irresponsible behavior, such as driving too fast, spending too much money, or having unprotected sex.
Extreme behavior that causes problems on the job, at school, in social situations, or at home.
Symptoms of psychosis, such as hearing voices or being paranoid.

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