Manic Behavior

QUESTION: What is meant by manic behavior?

ANSWER:

Definition of manic behavior: The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines mania as, “The excitement manifested by mental and physical hyperactivity, disorganization of behavior, and elevation of mood; specifically: the manic phase of manic-depressive mental disorder.”

Manic behavior patterns: Manic behavior patterns include hyperactivity, increased energy, and heightened mood. Left untreated, the person’s judgment is impaired resulting in reckless and dangerous behavior. In severe cases, delusions and hallucinations occur.

Manic behavior results in excessive irritability and aggression. The sufferer does not have a realistic expectation of his own capability. He experiences an inflated sense of self-importance known as ‘delusions of grandeur.’ He engages in thrill-seeking and risky behavior without regard for his own safety or the safety of others because he cannot be realistic about his behavior. This makes him dangerous both to himself and to others.

The person with manic behavior is also impulsive, has poor judgment, and is very easily distracted. Uncontrolled racing thoughts, ideas, and speech are the hallmark of manic behavior. There is so much ‘energy’ that the person does not feel the need for sleep, and does not feel fatigued from the lack of sleep either. These manic behaviors not only affect the sufferer but also those around him/her.

Sufferer’s description of manic behavior: A person with manic-depressive illness¹ describes his problem thus: “The fast ideas become too fast, and there are far too many. . .overwhelming confusion replaces clarity. . .you stop keeping up with it-memory goes. Infectious humor ceases to amuse. Your friends become frightened. . .everything is now against the grain. . .you are irritable, angry, frightened, uncontrollable, and trapped.”