Dysphoric mania, or a mixed bipolar state, is a condition that some bipolar disorder patients experience when they have symptoms of mania and depression at the same time. Bipolar disorder affects a patient’s brain and typically causes mood episodes that may shift between manic episodes and depressive episodes and may include episodes of dysphoric mania. Patients with bipolar disorder can be diagnosed and treated by medical doctors in many cases. Many bipolar disorder patients can lead productive and full lives with ongoing and effective treatment of this condition.
People with dysphoric mania may have symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleeping problems or agitation. Feelings of deep sadness or hopelessness can combine with an extreme level of energy during some episodes of dysphoric mania. Impulsiveness and irritability may develop in some cases of dysphoric mania as can thoughts of suicide. Dysphoric mania episodes can be very dangerous for patients, because the risk of substance abuse and suicide attempts tends to increase during this mixed bipolar state.
Patients with bipolar disorder may also experience separate manic episodes or depressive episodes. Manic episodes can include mania symptoms such as extended periods of agitation, jumpiness or an unusually outgoing and happy mood. Racing thoughts, fast talking and being easily distracted are common mania symptoms. People may also notice a reduced need for sleep and an increase in high-risk or impulsive behaviors related to sex and money during a manic episode.
Depressive episodes often develop in bipolar disorder patients and usually include symptoms of depression such as a loss of interest in activities that a patient used to enjoy, feelings of tiredness and extended periods of emptiness and worrying. Problems with decision-making, memory and concentration may also occur during depressive episodes. Thoughts of suicide and suicide attempts can also increase during depressive episodes. Combinations of manic, depressive and dysphoric mania episodes as well as their specific symptoms tend to vary from patient to patient.
Doctors typically conduct physical examinations, mental health evaluations and medical tests to help diagnose patients with bipolar disorder. In many cases, patients with bipolar disorder receive drugs such as lithium or other mood-stabilizing medications to control symptoms. Some patients may take antipsychotic medications or antidepressants to help control the episodes of this disease. In some cases, doctors may recommend psychotherapy for patients with bipolar disorder to help them with their day-to-day functioning and social interactions.
