What is a defining feature of mania as a symptom?

A defining feature of mania is elevated mood that is often disproportionate to the situation at hand, which can occur without any identifiable cause. This heightened mood state can manifest as increased energy, euphoria, or irritability and is a core characteristic of manic episodes commonly seen in conditions like bipolar disorder.

During a manic episode, individuals may also experience a decreased need for sleep, rapid speech, racing thoughts, and, at times, risky behaviors. The lack of a clear trigger distinguishes this symptom from feelings associated with more depressive states, which tend to involve pervasive sadness or negative thought patterns, or emotional lability, which refers to rapid and extreme changes in emotion. The elevated mood associated with mania stands out as a significant and defining aspect that can greatly affect a person’s functioning and well-being.