A manic episode is a period of abnormally elevated mood and energy, often accompanied by impulsive behavior, racing thoughts, irritability, and reduced need for sleep. Manic episodes can last from a few days to several weeks, and they can interfere with your daily functioning, relationships, and well-being.
How to stop a manic episode immediately – A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood accompanied by a range of symptoms that significantly impact an individual’s behavior, emotions, and daily functioning. Here’s a description of some common characteristics and features of a manic episode:
1. Elevated Mood: During a manic episode, a person often experiences an intense and persistent state of euphoria, feeling unusually happy, confident, or elated. This elevated mood is a key hallmark of mania.
One of the biggest challenges of having a manic episode is recognizing the signs and symptoms. Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if you are just feeling happy and energetic, or if you are becoming manic. Some of the warning signs that I have noticed in myself are:
- Feeling overly confident, optimistic, or euphoric
- Talking faster and louder than usual, or jumping from one topic to another
- Having grandiose or unrealistic ideas or plans
- Being easily distracted or restless
- Spending money recklessly or engaging in risky behaviors
- Having increased sexual desire or activity
- Having trouble sleeping or staying still
Let us look at some steps to prevent the maniac episode from getting worse. Some of the things that help the patients are:
- Keeping a regular routine of sleeping, eating, and exercising
- Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, drugs, and other substances that can trigger or worsen mania
- Seeking professional help from my doctor or therapist as soon as possible
- Taking my medication as prescribed and following my treatment plan
- Reaching out to my support network of family, friends, or peers who understand what I am going through
- Practicing relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga
- Reducing stress and avoiding triggers such as conflict, deadlines, or major life changes
Another challenge of having a manic episode is dealing with the consequences. Sometimes, what one does or says things they often tend to regret later or consume oneself with the feeling of hurting oneself or others. The person tends to also neglect their responsibilities at work, school, or home. After the episode is over, one may feel ashamed, guilty, or depressed. Some of the ways to cope with these feelings are:
- Being honest and accountable for my actions
- Apologizing and making amends to those who I have harmed or offended
- Seeking forgiveness from myself and others
- Learning from my mistakes and trying not to repeat them
- Focusing on the positive aspects of my life and my recovery
- Seeking help from a counselor or a support group if I need it
Living with bipolar disorder is not easy, but it is not impossible either. I have learned that I can manage my condition and live a fulfilling life. I have also learned that I am not alone in this journey. There are many people who understand what I am going through and who are willing to help me. If you are one of them, thank you for your support and compassion. If you are someone who is struggling with bipolar disorder or mania, please know that there is hope and help available. You are not your diagnosis. You are a valuable and unique person who deserves happiness and health.
Individual experiencing manic episodes, may feel overwhelmed, scared, or helpless. Manic episodes are periods of abnormally elevated mood and energy that can last from a few days to several weeks. They are often accompanied by symptoms such as racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, grandiose delusions, reduced need for sleep, and increased risk-taking. Manic episodes can have serious consequences for your health, relationships, work, and finances.
However, there are ways to deal with the severity of manic episodes and reduce their impact on your life. Here are some tips that may help you cope with manic episodes:
- – Seek professional help. Manic episodes are a sign of a mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder or schizoaffective disorder. These conditions require proper diagnosis and treatment by a qualified mental health professional. Treatment may include medication, psychotherapy, or both. Medication can help stabilize your mood and prevent future episodes. Psychotherapy can help you understand your triggers, cope with your emotions, and develop healthy coping skills.
- – Follow your treatment plan. Once you have a treatment plan, it is important to follow it as prescribed by your doctor or therapist. Do not stop taking your medication without consulting your doctor first. Do not skip or change your doses. Do not use alcohol or drugs, as they can interfere with your medication and worsen your symptoms. If you have any side effects or concerns about your treatment, talk to your doctor or therapist as soon as possible.
- – Monitor your mood. Keeping track of your mood can help you identify early signs of a manic episode and seek help before it gets worse. You can use a mood diary, an app, or a chart to record your mood, energy level, sleep pattern, and any other symptoms you may have. You can also share your mood records with your doctor or therapist to help them adjust your treatment if needed.
- – Seek support. You do not have to deal with manic episodes alone. Seek support from people who care about you and understand what you are going through. You can reach out to your family, friends, partner, or other trusted people for emotional support, practical help, or companionship. You can also join a support group, online or in person, where you can meet other people who have similar experiences and challenges. Support groups can provide you with a safe space to share your feelings, learn from others, and receive encouragement and advice.
- – Practice self-care. Taking care of yourself can help you cope with stress and reduce the severity of manic episodes. Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, exercise regularly, and avoid caffeine and nicotine. Try to maintain a regular routine and schedule that suits your needs and preferences. Engage in activities that make you happy and relaxed, such as hobbies, meditation, music, or reading. Avoid triggers that may worsen your mood, such as stressful situations, negative people, or unrealistic expectations.
