Glossary

Term · Postpartum: Mind

hypomania

Also: hypomanic episode

A period of unusually high energy, little need for sleep, racing thoughts, and irritability, lasting several days. It is milder than mania and can be part of bipolar disorder.

In plain words

Hypomania is a milder form of mania. It means several days of unusually high energy or mood, with much less need for sleep, fast speech, and a rush of plans or projects. Irritability can be part of it. Friends or family often notice the change before the person does. A hypomanic episode is not the same as an ordinary good week. It is a sustained change that others can see. Pregnancy does not cause hypomania. A history of these episodes does change how a clinician treats a mood complaint, including . Hypomania can be part of , which is one reason mood screening asks about past episodes. If you notice these signs in yourself or a partner, call your provider the same day. If there are thoughts of harming yourself or someone else, call or text , or call 911.

The deeper version

DSM-5-TR defines a hypomanic episode as a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased activity or energy, lasting at least four consecutive days. It requires at least three additional symptoms, such as decreased need for sleep, pressured speech, flight of ideas, or risky behavior, or four if the mood is only irritable. Mania requires at least one week, or any duration if hospitalization is needed, with marked impairment or psychotic features. Hypomania does not cause marked impairment. A history of hypomania or mania changes diagnosis and treatment, because antidepressant treatment alone can precipitate switching. Screening tools such as the do not detect hypomania, so a structured history is needed (ACOG Committee Opinion 757, 2018).

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Sources

  • American Psychiatric Association — Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), 2022
  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Committee Opinion 757: Screening for Perinatal Depression, 2018

The Mothership Topic Wiki is general information for mothers and the people who care for them. It is not medical, legal, or mental-health advice and does not create a provider relationship. Experiences posted by members are their own. In an emergency call 911. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988.