Bipolar I disorder is defined by manic episodes that last at least 7 days (most of the day, nearly every day) or when manic symptoms are so severe that hospital care is needed. Usually, separate depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks.
How long does a manic episode last? Early signs (called “prodromal symptoms”) that you're getting ready to have a manic episode can last weeks to months. If you're not already receiving treatment, episodes of bipolar-related mania can last between three and six months.
Signs a Manic Episode Is Ending
Feeling more tired and getting more sleep. Being able to think more clearly, even if your memories of the manic episode are fuzzy. Making fewer impulsive decisions. Feeling overwhelmed by all the projects you've taken on.
Mania lasts 1 week or longer. Alternating hypomanic (less severe mania in intensity) and depressive episodes of varying lengths. Hypomania lasts 4 days or longer.
A manic episode can last for weeks or even months, depending on whether you are in a manic phase of a mental illness like bipolar I disorder or you are experiencing mania induced by a drug such as meth or cocaine.
There are three stages of mania: hypomania, acute mania and delirious mania. Classifications of mania are mixed states, hypomania and associated disorders.
Possible causes of hypomania or mania include: high levels of stress. changes in sleep patterns or lack of sleep. using recreational drugs or alcohol.
A person with bipolar disorder may be unaware they're in the manic phase. After the episode is over, they may be shocked at their behaviour. But at the time, they may believe other people are being negative or unhelpful. Some people with bipolar disorder have more frequent and severe episodes than others.
A bipolar depression crash is usually the emotional fallout of a hypomanic or manic episode. It can also occur when something triggers bipolar depression or as a result of chemical or hormonal changes in the brain.
Mania goes beyond normal mood and energy changes. The symptoms of mania are so intense that they can affect a person's relationships, job, or well-being. Having mania does not always mean that the person feels happy. While mania can cause a feeling of euphoria, it can also cause extreme irritability.
After a manic or hypomanic episode you might: Feel very unhappy or ashamed about how you behaved. Have made commitments or taken on responsibilities that now feel unmanageable. Have only a few clear memories of what happened during your episode, or none at all.
Mania may sometimes lead to psychotic episodes, which can trigger a misdiagnosis of schizophrenia. Bipolar may worsen with age or over time if this condition is left untreated. As time goes on, a person may experience episodes that are more severe and more frequent than when symptoms first appeared.
On the average, however, most first episodes of mania last from several weeks up to 3 months. In the natural course of events, symptoms tend to gradually subside; after they fade many patients feel guilty over what they did and perhaps are full of self-reproach.
Bipolar episodes decrease brain size, and possibly intelligence. Grey matter in the brains of people with bipolar disorder is destroyed with each manic or depressive episode.
The symptoms usually appear between the ages of 18 to 29 years, but they can occur at any age, including childhood and the teenage years. Bipolar disorder can be hard to diagnose, but there are signs or symptoms that you can look for.
These mood episodes cause symptoms that last a week or two, or sometimes longer. During an episode, the symptoms last every day for most of the day. Feelings are intense and happen with changes in behavior, energy levels, or activity levels that are noticeable to others.
When your mood shifts to mania or hypomania (less extreme than mania), you may feel euphoric, full of energy or unusually irritable. These mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior and the ability to think clearly.
Psychosis in bipolar disorder can happen during manic or depressive episodes. But it's more common during episodes of mania. Many people believe that psychosis is a sudden, severe break with reality. But psychosis usually develops slowly.
Manic symptoms can include increased energy, excitement, impulsive behaviour, and agitation. Depressive symptoms can include lack of energy, feeling worthless, low self-esteem and suicidal thoughts. You can also have psychotic symptoms.
Untreated, an episode of mania can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Most commonly, symptoms continue for a few weeks to a few months. Depression may follow shortly after, or not appear for weeks or months. Many people with bipolar I disorder experience long periods without symptoms in between episodes.
Signs of a Manic Episode
Feeling wired, jumpy, or buzzed. Irritability. Not needing sleep, or feeling energetic despite getting little to no sleep for days at a time. Loss of appetite, and having lots of energy despite eating little food.
Let them know you're worried. If you're worried that your friend or family member is becoming unwell, try to address this with them gently. Don't criticise or accuse, and stay calm and non-confrontational. Explain that you've noticed changes in their behaviour and why it concerns you, and ask if they've noticed it too.