Hypomanic episodes are described as less severe and shorter in duration than manic episodes.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not specified
• D. Always accompanied by psychosis

Answer: (A)

Hypomania is a milder form of mania, so the symptoms mirror mania (elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, rapid thoughts, decreased need for sleep) but without the same level of disruption. The key distinctions are duration and impairment: hypomanic episodes endure at least four consecutive days, while manic episodes last at least seven days (unless hospitalization occurs). Hypomania does not typically cause the marked impairment in functioning or the need for hospitalization that mania often does; psychotic features are more common in mania than in hypomania. Because of the lower severity and shorter duration, the statement correctly describes hypomanic episodes.