Coping tools during an episode: What to do when it’s getting intense

— For millions grappling with bipolar disorder, the rush of mania can feel like an unstoppable wave of euphoria and energy. But experts warn it’s a symptom of mental illness that, left unchecked, can lead to risky behaviors and lasting fallout. 

A new guide from WebMD outlines straightforward ways to spot early signs, intervene quickly and build a safety net for those highs and the crashes that follow.

Mania, part of bipolar I disorder, involves extreme elevations in mood, activity and behavior that stand out to friends and family. 

It’s not just “feeling great” — it’s a diagnostic red flag, often paired with deep depressive lows. Episodes can last weeks to months, though treatment can shorten them to under three months.

What sparks mania? Genetics play a big role, with family history boosting risk. Brain chemistry glitches, head injuries, strokes or even certain antidepressants can trigger it. 

Everyday culprits include sleep deprivation, substance use, major life shifts like a job change or divorce, or overwhelming environments packed with noise and crowds.

Symptoms creep in subtly: racing thoughts, irritability, skimping on sleep yet buzzing with energy. Soon, they escalate to nonstop talking, impulsive spending sprees, heightened sex drive or diving headfirst into hobbies. In severe cases, known as delirious mania, confusion and hallucinations blur reality.

The aftermath hits hard. Survivors might wake to embarrassment over blacked-out memories, exhaustion from overcommitments or a slide into depression. 

Jobs and relationships often suffer — studies show high unemployment rates linger even after symptoms fade, as stigma clings like a shadow.

The good news? Proactive steps can rein it in. Early intervention is key. Urge anyone sensing mania to call their doctor. 

Meds like mood stabilizers (lithium, valproate) or antipsychotics (aripiprazole, quetiapine) often steady the ship, sometimes alongside therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps unpack triggers, while family counseling rallies support squads.

Daily habits form the frontline defense. Aim for seven to nine hours of shut-eye nightly — no caffeine after noon. Stick to routines: regular meals, exercise and a mood journal to track patterns. 

During an episode, hit pause on big decisions; hand over credit cards to a trusted pal to curb impulse buys. Steer clear of alcohol, drugs and high-stakes situations like heated arguments.

For loved ones, learn the warning signs — that sudden gush of grand plans or sleepless nights — and craft a game plan together. Stay calm if delusions arise, the guide advises, and set firm boundaries if safety’s at stake. Post-episode, offer a listening ear without judgment; encourage professional follow-up.

Mania’s toll extends beyond the individual: reckless choices can invite STIs, financial ruin or legal woes. Yet with awareness, it doesn’t have to define life. Understand your triggers and build routines that protect you.

For those in the thick of it, resources abound. WebMD’s toolkit empowers with actionable advice, reminding us: Seeking help isn’t weakness — it’s the smartest move.

Source: WebMD, “How to Deal With Mania and Manic Episodes.” https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/deal-with-mania

See related article: A Simple Tool Empowers Bipolar Patients to Track Mania Symptoms

Mania Insights is a blog dedicated to demystifying mental health highs and lows. Have a story? Email us at mania.insights@gmail.com

Comment: As someone who went through hypomania and mania, and can relate if you think there is nothing wrong and you are feeling great. I did. What I didn’t understand is that development of full blown mania can be disasterous. It can lead to ruin. You might lose your bank account, your loved ones, and your sanity. As you are falling into it, you don’t realize how bad it can become. I thought everything was just fine until police detained me, causing paranoia, and I was almost forcibly hospitalized. I am lucky to be alive and on the road to recovery. Please seek help when you are aware of the hypomania and symptoms appear to be manageable. Email mania.insights@gmail.com for more suggestions.

Recent headlines

• Please Don’t Reply: Why I Sent Hundreds of Texts During My Manic Episode and Couldn’t Respond
• Why Manic Spirituality Feels More Real Than Reality
• Salt Cravings, Dirty Fingernails, and Cracked Skin: The Physical Signs of My Mania
• AI and Bipolar Disorder Mood Detection: How Machines Are Learning to Spot Mania Before You Can
• I Hid Things Everywhere, Even From Myself: The Compulsion Nobody Warned Me About