5 Different Types of Mania: Which One Affects You the Most?

"You are a MANIAC!"

"Are you suffering from Mania?"

Well have you ever heard or want to know about Manic and Mania? These phrases get thrown around far too casually - but what if there’s some truth behind them? What if those intense mood swings, bursts of energy, or risky behaviors aren’t just “personality quirks” but signs of something deeper?

If you ever feel like your mind is racing a mile a minute, your energy is endless, and sleep feels optional? Or maybe someone you care about seems to be on an emotional rollercoaster - one moment full of grand plans and excitement, and the next, crashing into confusion or frustration? That could be more than just a mood swing. It could be mania.

But what exactly is mania? 

Mania is a mental disorder that makes people feel very happy, have a lot of energy, and act on impulse. It can lead people to do dangerous acts, make poor decisions, and lose contact with reality. Mental health professionals frequently associate mania with bipolar disorder, although it may manifest in other disorders.

At Athena Behavioral Health, we understand these different types of mania and provide specialized treatment for each one.

In this blog, we will explore what is mania, five main types of mania, including the core symptoms, causes of mania, and treatment options for each. 

Understanding the 5 Different Types of Mania - Symptoms & Treatment

1. Acute Mania: The Most Intense Type of Mania

Acute mania is the most severe type of mania. It often involves symptoms that are disruptive to daily functioning, such as hyperactivity, rapid speech, extreme irritability, and delusional thinking. This type of mania can lead to erratic behavior and is typically associated with bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of Acute Mania:

• Extreme irritability
  
• Impulsivity and poor decision-making
  
• Increased energy levels
  
• Racing thoughts and rapid speech
  
• Delusions or hallucinations
  
• Insomnia or reduced need for sleep
  
  

Acute Mania Treatment:

Treatment for acute mania usually involves hospitalization to ensure the safety of the individual and others around them. Medications like mood stabilizers and antipsychotics are commonly prescribed, along with psychotherapy to defend mania and symptoms of mania in the long term.

2. Hypomania: The Mild Mania

Unlike acute mania, hypomania is a milder type of mania. People experiencing hypomania often feel unusually energetic, optimistic, and productive, but they are still able to function in society without major disruption. However, hypomania can progress to acute mania if left untreated.

Symptoms of Hypomania:

• Increased energy and creativity
  
• Elevated mood
  
• Reduced need for sleep (feeling rested after a few hours)
  
• Heightened sociability and talkativeness
  
• Increased focus on goals and activities
  
  

Treatment for Hypomania:

While hypomania might not require immediate medical intervention, individuals with hypomania are often monitored closely to prevent the condition from worsening. Treatment typically includes mood stabilizers and therapy for mania and any underlying mental health conditions.

3. Mixed Mania: Mania and Depression Combined

Mixed mania, also known as a mixed affective episode, and the causes of mania occurs when a person experiences symptoms of both mania and depression simultaneously. This can lead to a state of emotional turmoil, where feelings of sadness and hopelessness are mixed with feelings of euphoria and hyperactivity. Mixed mania can be particularly challenging to diagnose and treat.

Symptoms of Mixed Mania: 

• Extreme mood swings
• Irritability and restlessness
  
• Racing thoughts combined with feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  
• Increased energy with fatigue
  
• Impulsive behavior with feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  
  

Mixed Mania Treatment suggested by Mania Experts

Treating mixed mania requires a combination of medications, including mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is also helpful in managing the emotional complexity of mixed mania. 

"From Struggles to Strength – My Journey with Athena" - Feedback from one of the Athena's patient

"I came to Athena because I was dealing with symptoms related to mania - like severe sleep problems, irritability, and aggression. These issues were seriously affecting my life and mental well-being. But after starting treatment at Athena, everything changed for the better. With the right care and support, those challenges have been resolved, and I’m truly grateful. What once felt like weaknesses have now turned into strengths." Read More: Mania Disorder Recovery

4. Secondary Mania: Caused by Medical Conditions or Substance Use

Secondary mania refers to manic episodes that occur as a result of another underlying medical condition or the use of substances like drugs or alcohol. It can be triggered by neurological disorders, infections, or certain drugs for mania. In some cases, secondary mania is caused by substance abuse, such as stimulant use or alcohol withdrawal.

Symptoms of Secondary Mania:

• Symptoms similar to acute mania, including elevated mood and energy levels
  
• Occurs alongside other medical conditions or substance abuse
  
• May be more short-lived than other types of mania
  

Treatment for Secondary Mania:

Treating secondary mania involves addressing the underlying cause, such as managing a medical condition or discontinuing substance use. Drugs for mania may also be used to control manic symptoms.

5. Delirious Mania: Extreme Confusion and Disorientation

Delirious mania is a rare but extreme form of mania that involves severe confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations. It often results from other medical issues, such as infections or neurodegenerative diseases. Individuals with delirious mania may struggle to differentiate between reality and hallucinations, making this form of mania highly dangerous.

Symptoms of Delirious Mania:

• Severe disorientation and confusion
  
• Hallucinations or delusions
  
• Hyperactivity combined with inability to focus
  
• Severe insomnia
  
• Mood swings from extreme euphoria to deep agitation
  

Treatment for Delirious Mania:

Delirious mania requires urgent medical attention, typically in a hospital setting. Treatment focuses on stabilizing the individual and addressing the underlying medical cause. Antipsychotic medications are often used to control symptoms, along with supportive care to ensure safety.

Conclusion of Mania

Understanding what mania is, its different types and variations can help identify the condition early and ensure appropriate treatment. Whether you experience acute mania, hypomania, mixed mania, secondary mania, or delirious mania, it’s important to seek professional help if you notice symptoms affecting your life. Athena Behavioral Health is here to guide you. Discover the best treatment for mania for your specific type of mania by contacting us today.

If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of mania, it's vital to consult with a psychiatrist or psychologist who can provide the proper diagnosis and treatment plan.