Which of the following is a symptom of a manic episode?

Inflated self-esteem is a hallmark symptom of a manic episode. During such episodes, individuals often exhibit an elevated mood and an exaggerated sense of self-importance. This can manifest as feelings of grandeur, where a person may believe they possess special talents, abilities, or insights that are not grounded in reality. This inflated self-esteem can lead to risky behaviors and a lack of understanding of potential consequences because the individual feels invincible or exceptionally capable.

The other symptoms listed—an increased need for sleep, consistent feelings of sadness, and physical lethargy—are more commonly associated with depressive episodes rather than mania. In fact, during a manic episode, individuals typically experience decreased need for sleep and may feel unusually energetic or hyperactive instead of fatigued or lethargic. Thus, the presence of inflated self-esteem specifically aligns with the defining characteristics of a manic episode.