Mania

It is important to expand our knowledge regarding different mental health disparities within our global community. Today I will talk about Mania which affects at least 40 million people worldwide.

So what is Mania?? Mania is described as a condition in which you display an over-the-top level of activity or energy, mood or behavior. Symptoms include feelings of invincibility, lack of sleep, racing thoughts and ideas, rapid talking and having false beliefs or perceptions. A manic episode is a period of time in which you experience one or more of these symptoms of mania; sometimes the result of a manic episode can be hospitalization. A person may experience mania on their own or as part of a broader mental health problem such as bipolar disorder, postpartum psychosis, or schizoaffective disorder.

It is important to consider that there are different levels of mania:

Hypomania- This is considered a milder version of mania that typically lasts for a shorter period. This is usually a few days, although the length of time can vary. You will usually be able to continue with your day to day activities without being too badly affected, but other people may notice a change in your mood and behavior. You may feel extremely happy, euphoric, excited, irritable, or distracted

Mania- This is considered a more severe form. It typically lasts for a week or longer unless cut short by treatment. Symptoms are the same as hypomania however they might be intensified over longer periods of time.

All hope is not lost if you or a loved one is experiencing Mania. Ways to support those with Mania include:

• -  Remaining as calm as you can

• -  Letting the person know that although you don’t share the belief, you understand that their experience feels real to them

• -  Try to focus on supporting them with how they are feeling, rather than confirming or challenging their realityI hope this information was helpful in providing more information about the basics behind Mania and how to support those within your own community.
  

-Kamari Carter