Bipolar I disorder is characterized by a manic state described as euphoric, talkative, highly energetic, and overly ambitious lasting how long?

• A. Less than a day
• B. A week or longer
• C. Several months
• D. Indefinitely

Answer: (B)

Durations define manic episodes in Bipolar I. A manic episode is a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy or activity that lasts at least seven days, unless hospitalization is necessary sooner. The description fits mania—euphoric, talkative, highly energetic, and ambitiously grand—so it meets the duration criterion of a week or longer. Shorter spans (less than a day) don’t meet mania (they might be considered hypomania if they last at least four days and don’t cause marked impairment), while much longer periods still must satisfy that minimum duration unless hospitalization is required.