Mania is a severe medical condition characterized by extremely elevated mood, energy, and thought patterns. It is often associated with bipolar disorder. Simply speaking, it is the complete opposite of clinical depression. While many would describe being manic as an amazing experience, the 'high' can be so intense it could potentially be dangerous. It may lead to very poor decision making, financial trouble, and even psychosis. Mania also provokes racing thoughts and creative ideas. However, it also pushes sufferers into agitation and anxiety. It can also lead to extreme frustration due to the fact that it often adds a false sense of success to people's lives. Classic symptoms of mania include fast, nonstop talking, pacing aimlessly, staring into space, irritability, and heavy interest in goal oriented activities. One with mania may complain of racing thoughts, hallucinations, music stuck in their head, and feelings of enlightenment. Mania is most usually associated with bipolar disorder, where episodes of mania may cyclically alternate with episodes of depression. (Note: Not all mania can be classified as bipolar disorder, as mania may result from other diseases or causes. However, bipolar disorder is the "classic" manic disease.) Hypomania is a less severe variant of mania, where there is less loss of control. Many creative talents with bipolar disorder associate mania and hypomania with creative ideas.
