Psychological Test: Hypomania, Bipolar or Depression

Hypomania is, as the term implies, a minor form of mania. The occurrence of hypomania is more common than realized. As in a case study described Kets de Vries’ Reflections on Character and Leadership, hypomanic episodes are very common among people in our lives known to be exceeding high achievers, leaders and colleagues. Read case study here.

We may even be one of the many who “suffer” hypomanic episodes too. I put “suffer” in inverted commas because the episodes of hypomania do not feel like suffering. It is exhilarating and productive. So why are we concerned with hypomania?

Documentary about Bipolar Disorder:

Episodes of hypomania almost inadvertently leads the person to long spells of depression. These mood swings creates instability in the lives of the individual and strains relationships. In crisis situations, hypomania develops into mania, and depression leads to addictive or even suicidal behavior.

Here is a short questionnaire for self-reflection / reflection of the other. This is, however, not a diagnostic test. If you feel that your mood swings and/or that of your family members are affecting your lives, contact a mental health professional.

 

1.I tend to have grandiose ideas, and think I can do things other “lesser people cannot do”.

1-very true

4-not at all

2.I make unrealistic plans, that I often cannot fulfill. I “bite more than I can chew”.

1-very true

4-not at all

3.The result of my many judgments often end up disappointing.

1-very true

4-not at all

4.People described me as being over-talkative.

1-very true

4-not at all

5.When I need to talk to someone, I seek them out aggressively.

1-very true

4-not at all

6.I feel often rejected by people. I think people might reject me.

1-very true

4-not at all

7.When I am uncomfortable, I laugh it over and/or make jokes.

1-very true

4-not at all

8.I verbalize only exaggerated feelings of well-being, to impress others how good I am doing.

1-very true

4-not at all

9.I am lucky to be me, because of my abilities and how I look.

1-very true

4-not at all

10.I am restless because the world is boring.

1-very true

4-not at all

11.I freak out when I have to keep still. Doing exercises like meditation is impossible for me.

1-very true

4-not at all

12.If I don’t get my way, I get irritated and aggressive. I don’t like people getting in my way.

1-very true

4-not at all

13.I pride myself as being a multi-tasker. I can’t not do more than one thing at a time.

1-very true

4-not at all

14.I have unlimited energy, unlike other people.

1-very true

4-not at all

15.At times, I do not need much sleep (less than 3 hours in the night).

1-very true

4-not at all

16.At times, I get sexually indiscrete, then later on regret it.

1-very true

4-not at all

17.I take financial risks that potentially endanger my existence.

1-very true

4-not at all

18.I compulsively overspend large sums of money.

1-very true

4-not at all

19.I experience down days, when I feel bad about myself for feeling tired, unable to do things.

1-very true

4-not at all

20.I experience the condition of Q. 19 for more than 2 weeks at a time.

1-very true

4-not at all

21.I take drugs and/or alcohol to soothe myself.

1-very true

4-not at all