When we talk about bipolar disorder, mania is often the phase that grabs the most attention. It’s intense, overwhelming, and can sometimes feel like a rollercoaster that just won’t stop. As a psychiatrist, I’ve seen how mania can completely take over someone’s life, leaving them—and their loved ones—feeling lost and confused.

But what exactly are the symptoms of mania in bipolar disorder? Let me break it down for you, with a few real-world examples to help make sense of it all.

1. Excessive Energy and Hyperactivity

Imagine feeling like you’ve just had ten cups of coffee—but it’s not just for a few hours. It’s constant, and you’re buzzing with energy day and night. That’s what mania can feel like. People often describe it as having so much energy that they don’t need to sleep, or they feel like they can take on the world.

Example: I once had a patient, let’s call him Ravi, who would suddenly get up in the middle of the night and start rearranging furniture. It wasn’t just a quick task—it was an all-night event, and he felt completely justified in doing it. His mind was racing with ideas, and he just couldn’t sit still.

2. Inflated Self-Esteem or Grandiosity

In a manic phase, individuals often feel like they’re on top of the world. They might believe they have special powers, unique talents, or that they’re destined for greatness. This isn’t just self-confidence—it’s an exaggerated sense of self that can lead to risky or impulsive decisions.

Example: I had a patient, Priya, who became convinced she was a world-class artist, despite having no formal training. She spent thousands of rupees on art supplies, quit her job, and even tried to organize her own art exhibition. When the mania subsided, she was left feeling embarrassed and overwhelmed by the consequences.

3. Decreased Need for Sleep

Mania often comes with a noticeable reduction in the need for sleep. And I don’t mean feeling slightly less tired—I’m talking about going days with just a couple of hours of sleep and still feeling incredibly energetic.

Example: I recall another patient, Aakash, who went three days straight with only two hours of sleep each night. He was convinced he didn’t need rest and used the extra hours to start multiple projects at once, none of which he could finish.

4. Rapid Speech and Racing Thoughts

People in a manic state often talk faster than usual, and it can be hard to keep up with them. Their thoughts are racing, jumping from one idea to another so quickly that it can be overwhelming just to listen.

Example: I remember a session with a patient named Meera, where she started talking about her plans to start a new business, then suddenly shifted to discussing her upcoming trip, and within seconds, she was reminiscing about her childhood. It was like her mind was in overdrive, and she couldn’t slow down.

5. Impulsive or Risky Behavior

This is one of the more dangerous aspects of mania. Individuals might engage in activities without considering the consequences—spending sprees, reckless driving, or even risky sexual behavior.

Example: A patient named Suresh once maxed out his credit cards in a single weekend, buying things he didn’t need, just because he felt like he could. When the mania wore off, he was left with a mountain of debt and regret.

6. Distractibility

During a manic episode, it’s incredibly hard for someone to focus on one thing. Their mind keeps pulling them in different directions, making it difficult to complete tasks or even hold a conversation.

Example: I had a patient, Nisha, who would start reading a book, then switch to watching TV, then pick up her phone to text someone—all within a few minutes. She couldn’t stick with any one activity for long because something else always caught her attention.

7. Unrealistic Plans or Goals

People experiencing mania often come up with grandiose plans that are unrealistic and impossible to achieve. They might believe they can do things far beyond their capabilities or resources.

Example: Raj, another patient, was convinced he could open a chain of restaurants, despite having no experience in the food industry. He started making calls, setting up meetings, and even trying to secure loans, all based on a fleeting idea born out of his manic state.

Personal Reflections

As a psychiatrist, seeing someone in a manic state is both fascinating and concerning. Mania can give people a false sense of invincibility, leading them to make decisions that can have long-term consequences. It’s not just about feeling “happy” or “excited”—it’s an intense, often destructive energy that can spiral out of control if not managed.

I often think back to my patients and the struggles they’ve faced during manic episodes. The challenge is not just helping them recognize these symptoms, but also finding ways to manage and prevent them in the future. It’s about striking a balance—helping them harness that energy in positive ways while keeping the destructive aspects at bay.

Final Thoughts

If you or someone you know is showing signs of mania, it’s crucial to seek help. Bipolar disorder is a complex condition, but with the right treatment and support, it’s possible to live a balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, understanding the symptoms is the first step in managing them.