Onika L. Dainty

When Feeling Great Isn’t Always Good

I used to love the early stages of hypomania—the creativity, the confidence, the endless energy. It felt like I had finally stepped into the best version of myself. Hypomania can be intoxicating, even euphoric, but it never lasts. It always slips into something darker, sometimes ending in hospitalization.

For those of us living with bipolar disorder, hypomania feels like a gift but is often a warning sign. While others may feel energized because of real-life events—a new job, a big achievement—hypomania can appear without reason. That unpredictability makes it difficult to recognize until it’s already reshaping your world.

This blog explores what hypomania really is, how to recognize its signs, and why understanding it is essential for mental health stability and self-compassion.

A Closer Look: What Is Hypomania?

Hypomania is a milder form of mania. It involves an elevated, expansive, or irritable mood lasting at least four days, often with increased activity or energy. Unlike full mania, hypomania doesn’t cause severe impairment, psychosis, or always require hospitalization.

Common Symptoms

• Elevated mood or irritability
  

• Reduced need for sleep
  

• Racing thoughts and pressured speech
  

• Increased energy and goal-driven activity
  

• Impulsivity and poor judgment
  

• Inflated self-esteem or grandiose thinking
  

Hypomania in Bipolar I vs. Bipolar II

• Bipolar I: Hypomania may precede more severe manic episodes, often with psychosis and significant impairment.
  

• Bipolar II: Hypomania involves similar symptoms but without psychosis or hospitalization. It can still disrupt judgment, relationships, and wellness.
  

Though less severe than mania, hypomania often blurs the line between “productive energy” and dangerous instability.

The Allure and the Risks of Hypomanic States

Hypomania often begins with heightened creativity, motivation, and excitement. You may wake with energy after little sleep, throw yourself into projects, or feel “superhuman.” But the shadow side quickly follows: risky choices, impulsive spending, reckless relationships, or pushing your body and mind beyond safe limits.

The crash afterward can be devastating—filled with shame, guilt, and exhaustion. I’ve learned through lived experience that these behaviours aren’t personal flaws but symptoms of a complex illness. Self-compassion is essential. I am not my illness, and neither are you.

Learning to Recognize Hypomania in Real Time

Recognizing hypomania early is difficult—especially when it feels good. But awareness is key to prevention.

Strategies That Helped Me:

• Identify Triggers: Lack of sleep is a major one for me, especially during travel. Good sleep hygiene helps protect against mood shifts.
  

• Listen to Feedback: Trusted friends or mentors can often spot changes—like pressured speech or irritability—before I do. Taking their observations seriously is an act of self-care.
  

• Self-Monitoring Tools: Journaling and mood-tracking apps create a record of shifts over time. Radical honesty with yourself is essential here.
  

When I feel the euphoric pull of hypomania, I ask myself: Where will this lead? What happens after the high?
For me, the answer has often been manic psychosis, hospitalization, and months of recovery. That truth keeps me grounded.

Managing Hypomania Without Shame

Managing hypomania means staying consistent with whatever system supports your mental health:

• Medication adherence (if part of your plan)
  

• Crisis prevention planning for when episodes escalate
  

• Self-compassion over self-criticism, reframing hypomania as a signal rather than a failure
  

The goal isn’t to suppress joy, but to recognize when joy turns into dysregulation and to respond with care.

Final Thoughts: Knowing Your High Is Knowing Your Illness

Hypomania is both a gift and a warning. It signals that my brain is edging toward instability and that it’s time to return to the tools that help me heal—sleep, medication, therapy, and self-awareness.

I’ve had episodes last days, weeks, even months. I never know when they’ll arrive, but I always know when they’re here. Over time, I’ve learned that chasing the high isn’t worth sacrificing my long-term wellness.

My goal is not to avoid joy or excitement but to distinguish between authentic happiness and emotional instability. That wisdom only comes with self-awareness, compassion, and practice.

To my readers: Have you ever mistaken a mental health symptom for personal growth? What helps you tell the difference between rising and unraveling?

The Unique Challenges Women Face

Women with Bipolar disorder face distinct challenges that complicate our experiences. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause, can exacerbate mood instability. I remember days when I felt like I was on a tightrope, trying to balance my emotions with the expectations placed upon me. Society often holds women to certain standards—being nurturing, resilient, and emotionally stable—adding pressure that can intensify our symptoms.

Navigating relationships can also be tricky. The stigma surrounding mental illness creates barriers in friendships and romantic relationships. I’ve had moments when I felt isolated, unsure of how to express what I was going through. Sharing my experiences with friends has often led to deeper connections, but it hasn’t been without its challenges.

Women as Caregivers and Self-Advocates

One aspect that deserves attention is the role of women as caregivers. Many women with Bipolar disorder are not only managing their own mental health but also taking care of family members or friends. This dual responsibility can make it difficult to prioritize self-care. However, I’ve noticed that women who actively participate in taking care of themselves often become more open to sharing their struggles and advocating for their needs.

Through my journey, I learned that taking risks—whether it’s trying a new therapy or speaking openly about my experiences—has empowered me. For example, joining support groups predominantly composed of women has provided a safe space for me to share my journey. The camaraderie I’ve experienced in these groups has shown me that vulnerability can lead to strength.

Mental health, largely a female-dominated field, has allowed me to feel comfortable discussing my experiences in therapy. It’s like talking to a girlfriend; the conversations feel intimate and relatable. This unique dynamic has helped me navigate the complexities of my mental health while also reinforcing the importance of self-advocacy.

The Impact of Medication on Hormonal Chemistry

Medication is often a cornerstone of managing Bipolar disorder, but it can also change our hormonal chemistry significantly. For me, adjusting to medication was a journey in itself. Initially, I struggled with side effects that felt overwhelming, and I had to work closely with my healthcare provider to find the right balance. I learned that being compliant with my medication regime was crucial, as non-compliance can lead to heightened symptoms and a more chaotic emotional state.

I’ve had moments where I thought, “You can’t pray the cray away.” This realization came after a particularly challenging episode when I was non-compliant. The repercussions were a stark reminder of how critical it is to stay on track with medication. During this time, I also recognized the need for consistent support and guidance—enter the idea of having a mental health mentor. This could be someone on your team who helps navigate the complexities of the mental healthcare system and advocates for you when you are unable to do so.

Vulnerability and Trust in Therapy

Developing trust with your therapist, counselor, or social worker is vital in managing mental health. I found that consistency in my therapeutic relationships helped build that trust over time. It’s all about relationship management skills; the more I opened up, the more I felt understood. This consistency created a nurturing environment where I could explore my vulnerabilities without fear of judgment.

In therapy, I’ve found it beneficial to share both my struggles and triumphs. My experiences have often resonated with my therapist, allowing for deeper conversations about coping mechanisms. I’ve developed grounding techniques that work for me—like aromatherapy, breathing exercises, tapping, or the cold water trick for dissociation. These tools have empowered me to manage my emotions and navigate overwhelming moments more effectively.

The Stigma of Mental Illness

One significant challenge I’ve faced as a woman with Bipolar disorder is the derogatory language used to describe mentally ill women. Terms like "crazy," "mad," or "hysterical" perpetuate harmful stereotypes that affect my experience as an individual. I remember feeling deeply affected by these labels, which created a sense of shame around my condition. However, I decided to take back the language, turning negative descriptors into positive affirmations. Humor has also become an essential coping mechanism for me. Laughter helps defuse tension and allows me to approach my experiences with a lighter heart.

Public speaking and community participation have been instrumental in reclaiming my narrative. By sharing my story, I aim to break down the stigma and foster understanding about Bipolar disorder. Engaging in community discussions has also given me the platform to advocate for change in mental health policies, particularly around the treatment of women.

Addressing Gender-Based Trauma in Healthcare

Gender-based trauma can deeply affect women’s experiences within the healthcare system, particularly in mental health settings. I’ve faced situations in hospitals that triggered past traumas, especially when it comes to restrictive practices. These experiences have fueled my desire to change policies regarding how women are treated during mental health interventions.

It’s vital for healthcare providers to recognize the impact of gender-based trauma and create supportive environments. Advocacy for change in these practices can lead to better experiences for women seeking care. By sharing our stories, we can push for policies that respect the dignity and autonomy of all patients.

The Power of Community Support

Peer support has been invaluable in my journey. Connecting with others who share similar experiences fosters a sense of belonging and understanding. I’ve found a community through various support groups, predominantly led by women. These spaces have allowed us to share stories openly and honestly. There’s something profoundly healing about realizing that someone else has walked a similar path.

Hearing others’ stories inspires me to share my own. In these supportive environments, I’ve learned to embrace vulnerability as a strength. We create a tapestry of hope and resilience, which can guide others facing similar challenges.

Knowledge is Power: The Importance of Research

As women with Bipolar disorder, knowledge is indeed power. I’ve learned that educating myself about my condition has been empowering. Researching my symptoms, treatment options, and coping strategies allowed me to take control of my mental health journey. This knowledge has not only informed my decisions but has also given me the confidence to advocate for myself within the healthcare system.

Participating in recovery college programs has been a transformative experience. These programs provide valuable information about mental health and recovery while fostering a sense of community. Engaging with others in these settings encourages open discussions about our experiences and the tools we can use to thrive.

Celebrating the Wins

While it’s easy to focus on the challenges, it’s crucial to celebrate the wins as well. Each achievement, no matter how small, deserves recognition. I’ve learned the power of positive affirmations. They may sound simple, but telling myself that I am capable has a profound impact on my mindset.

Sharing stories of personal achievements—like completing a project at work, reaching a sobriety milestone, or engaging in community advocacy—helps me acknowledge my progress. In moments of self-doubt, looking back at these victories fuels my motivation to continue moving forward. It’s about recognizing that we can grow, even amidst the highs and lows.

Final Thoughts

Living with Bipolar disorder is a journey filled with ups and downs, and it’s crucial for us to understand and support each other. By sharing our lived experiences, we create a tapestry of hope and resilience that can guide others. Remember, if you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There is strength in sharing our stories. For those looking for more resources, be sure to check out my post, How to Start Managing Bipolar Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide, for tips and strategies. Let's continue to have conversations that take us beyond the stigma and uplift one another.