Hypomanic episodes are marked by an unusually elevated, unrestrained, or irritable mood that persists for at least four days. Individuals often feel less of a need for sleep, and exhibit rushed or overly excited speech patterns. They show increased interest in creative or productive activities such as work, problem solving, planning social activities, etc., and can be highly efficient, although they are easily distracted. This may merely lead the individual to pursue familiar activities with greater enthusiasm or frequency, although, as with all of the above symptoms, the deviation from normal behavior patterns will be distinct enough so as to be noticeable to others. Individuals with bipolar I disorder experience manic episodes, rather than hypomanic episodes.
Manic episodes are very similar to hypomanic episodes, except they are more severe.
During a manic episode the individual exhibits a euphoric or extremely irritated mood that lasts for at least one week. Atypical self-confidence may reach the level of grandiose delusions. Increased sociability may constitute an unrelenting enthusiasm for interpersonal relations, even in socially inappropriate or intrusive circumstances. A marked decrease in sleep and hyperactivity is usually seen. Rapid thought and speech may lead to incessant, uninterruptible, even incoherent streams of words, sentences, and topics.