In what way is a hypomanic episode different from a manic episode?

A hypomanic episode is characterized as being less severe and less disruptive compared to a manic episode. In hypomania, individuals may experience an elevated mood, increased energy, and heightened activity levels, but these symptoms are not severe enough to significantly impair their functioning or require hospitalization. The episode may lead to increased productivity and sociability, yet it does not reach the extreme levels seen in manic episodes, which can lead to intense disruptions in daily life, severe impairment, or necessitate medical intervention.

In a manic episode, the symptoms are more pronounced and can cause major issues in personal, social, or work situations. The intensity of the euphoric or irritable mood, along with symptoms like grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behaviors, often leads to significant challenges in functioning or safety. In contrast, hypomanic episodes do not typically result in such severe consequences, allowing the individual to maintain a level of functionality and social engagement that manic episodes do not permit.

Therefore, the distinction based on severity and the impact on functioning is critical in differentiating between the two types of episodes.