Which symptoms are indicative of a manic episode?

In the context of manic episodes, the presence of elevated mood and decreased need for sleep are hallmark symptoms. Manic episodes are characterized primarily by an abnormally elevated or irritable mood lasting at least one week, coupled with increased energy or activity. Individuals experiencing a manic episode often feel euphoric, overly confident, and may exhibit a sense of grandiosity.

The decreased need for sleep is significant because during such episodes, individuals may sleep very little (sometimes just a few hours) and still feel energetic. This lack of sleep does not lead to the typical fatigue one would expect; instead, it can further escalate their mood and activity levels.

By contrast, the symptoms of excessive sleeping and low energy do not align with the manic state, as those are indicative of depressive episodes. Constant focus on work and responsibilities might suggest a productive phase, but does not capture the underlying elevated mood and restlessness typically seen in mania. Similarly, low self-esteem and withdrawal from activities are characteristics of depression rather than mania. Therefore, the combination of an elevated mood and decreased need for sleep accurately defines the manic episode criteria.