What does hypomanic mean?

Pronunciation

/haɪpəˈmænɪk/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adjective

Definition

A term used to describe a mild or moderate form of mania, characterized by an elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, and decreased need for sleep.

Examples

• The doctor diagnosed her with hypomania after noticing her increased energy and talkativeness.
• The patient experienced hypomanic episodes, which affected their daily life.

Synonyms

• Manic
• Euphoric

Antonyms

• Depressed
• Apathetic

Additional Information

Hypomania can be a symptom of bipolar disorder, a mental health condition. People experiencing hypomania may feel more confident, creative, and productive, but they may also engage in risky behavior or have poor judgment. It is essential to seek professional help if symptoms persist or worsen over time.

In some cases, hypomania can be triggered by certain medications, substance abuse, or sleep disorders. A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Etymology

The term “hypomania” comes from the Greek words “hypo,” meaning “under” or “below,” and “mania,” meaning “madness” or “frenzy.”

Usage Notes

Hypomania is often used interchangeably with mania, but they have distinct differences in terms of severity and impact on daily life.

Cultural References

• In literature, characters experiencing hypomania are often portrayed as creative and charismatic, but also prone to reckless behavior.
• In music, some artists have spoken publicly about their experiences with hypomania and how it affects their creative process.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• On a high
• Riding a wave

Related Words or Phrases

• Manic depression
• Bipolar disorder

Collocations

• Hypomanic episode
• Hypomanic symptoms

Frequency of Use

Hypomania is a relatively common term in the field of mental health, but it is not frequently used in everyday conversation.

Common Misspellings

• Hypomaniac
• Hypomanic