Mania and Hypomania In Human Evolution And Survival?

An evolutionary puzzle: Why bipolar genes persist

– Is it possible that bipolar traits like hypomania or mania may have offered humans evolutionary advantages, which could explain why genes linked to the disorder persist?

Hypomania manifests many traits that could benefit developing societies and likely enhanced survival. Hypomania could be advantageous in unstable or changing environments. It can offer quick adaptation, intense focus, and visionary planning. Hypomanic energy, divergent thinking, and confidence may have driven artistic, technological, and social innovation.

Manic episodes, however, appear to be maladaptive, because they are an overamplified version of otherwise beneficial bipolar traits. Severe mania brings impulsivity, poor judgment, and exhaustion, which could harm survival. Full mania lies at the extreme end of the bipolar spectrum.

Mania is likely a byproduct of genes that, in moderation, conferred benefits. But because the same genes cause both, they persist in populations

Here’s how hypomania’s traits might have helped human evolution:

Survival and Exploration

High energy and reduced need for sleep could have helped during migration, crisis, or hunting periods.

Leadership and risk-taking: Elevated mood, boldness, and novelty seeking might have benefited group survival in ancient environments—especially in exploration, hunting, or leadership roles.

Group Advantage

Charisma, confidence, persuasiveness, and grand vision might have inspired group cohesion and innovation.

Rapid idea generation and creativity and problem-solving may have helped in innovation and survival. Pattern recognition may have led to new tools, strategies, or cultural breakthroughs.

A few individuals with occasional hypomanic bursts could push societal boundaries — similar to how societies benefit from diversity in temperament.

Sexual Selection

Mating success: Increased sociability and high libido may have increased mating opportunities and reproductive success.

Genetic Evidence

Studies show bipolar disorder is highly heritable and shares genetic overlap with creativity and intelligence markers.

This suggests bipolar-related genes may persist because their moderate expression benefits humanity, even though extreme mania can be harmful.

Warning note about hypomania

Hypomania creates great risk for turning in to full blown mania. It typically happens without knowing it and can be very destructive and dangerous. It frequently leads to arrest, hospitalization, or both. Watch for the signs and symptoms of mania.

Sources:

Evolutionary origin of bipolar disorder-revised: EOBD-R
Positive Traits in the Bipolar Spectrum: The Space between Disorder and Adaptation
Evolutionary aspects of bipolar affective illness
Towards an Evolutionary View of Bipolar Disorders