Which type of mood disorder episode features unusual elevation and irritable mood?

Which type of mood disorder episode features unusual elevation and irritable mood?

• A. Manic episode
• B. Hypomanic episode
• C. Mixed episode
• D. Depressive episode

Answer: (A)

The type of mood disorder episode characterized by an unusually elevated and irritable mood is a manic episode. During a manic episode, individuals may experience an extreme increase in energy levels and heightened mood, which can also manifest as irritability. This state is typically marked by other symptoms such as grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and engaging in risky behaviors. In contrast, while a hypomanic episode also features elevated mood and increased activity, it is less severe than a manic episode and does not cause significant impairment in social or occupational functioning. Mixed episodes combine symptoms of both mania and depression, leading to a complex emotional experience, and depressive episodes are characterized by low mood rather than elevation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying and treating mood disorders effectively.

The type of mood disorder episode characterized by an unusually elevated and irritable mood is a manic episode. During a manic episode, individuals may experience an extreme increase in energy levels and heightened mood, which can also manifest as irritability. This state is typically marked by other symptoms such as grandiosity, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and engaging in risky behaviors.

In contrast, while a hypomanic episode also features elevated mood and increased activity, it is less severe than a manic episode and does not cause significant impairment in social or occupational functioning. Mixed episodes combine symptoms of both mania and depression, leading to a complex emotional experience, and depressive episodes are characterized by low mood rather than elevation. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for identifying and treating mood disorders effectively.