Is Hypomania “Just” Less Severe Mania?

49 snips

Sep 18, 2023

The discussion dives into the critical distinctions between hypomania and mania, debunking myths that hypomania is simply a milder version of mania. Personal experiences illustrate the significant impact of hypomania and the risks of underestimating it. The hosts emphasize the importance of consistency in managing bipolar disorder, advocating for stability over short-term highs. They also explore the challenges of accurate diagnosis and the need for open communication with healthcare providers to foster effective treatment.

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INSIGHT

Hypomania vs. Mania

Hypomania and mania are distinct, not simply different severities.
They share similarities, but comparing them based on those is misleading.

ANECDOTE

One Step Below?

Gabe Howard acknowledges using the "hypomania is one step below mania" analogy.
He notes this is true only from a certain point of view, as it describes his personal experience, not everyone's.

INSIGHT

Dangers of Untreated Hypomania

Untreated hypomania can lead to severe depression.
Traditional antidepressants can worsen mood instability in bipolar individuals.

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Often, when discussing hypomania in bipolar disorder, it is described as “just like mania, but not as severe.” To the uneducated populace, this creates the idea that hypomania is not as serious and, for all practical purposes, is basically “mania light.”

But is that accurate? Is hypomania simply a lesser form of mania? Or are mania and hypomania two distinct symptoms that need to be treated in unique ways? Join us as Dr. Nicole gives us all the medical info and Gabe shares how well-meaning bipolar advocates — like him — contribute to the confusion.

To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit the episode page.

Our hosts, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author.

He is also the host of Healthline Media's Inside Mental Health podcast available on your favorite podcast player. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com.

Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions.

Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.

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