Hypomania

The term hypomania has a lengthy history, although it has only recently been accorded diagnostic status within the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), published by the American Psychiatric Association. This overview discusses its definition and characteristics as well as the association between hypomania and bipolar II disorder.

Definitions of Hypomania

The term hypomania was first used by Hippocrates and further conceptualized by Emanuel Ernst Mendel in 1881 to characterize a type of mania of “lower intensity” and with primary symptoms of elevated mood, pressured speech, and increased motor activity. In addition, in 1921, Emil Kraepelin described hypomania as one manifestation of the illness distinct from acute mania and depressive or anxious mania. During the early 20th century, personality-based mood fluctuations, cyclothymia, and hypomania ...

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