What are the characteristics of hypomania symptoms?

The characteristics of hypomania include a decreased need for sleep, which is a hallmark symptom. Individuals experiencing hypomania may find they require less sleep than usual and feel rested despite fewer hours of sleep. This symptom does not typically reach the level of sleep deprivation associated with full mania, and many still function quite well in their daily lives, which is why it's noted as having "acceptable limits."

In contrast, hypomania does not intrinsically lead to job loss or significantly impair social functioning, which can occur in more severe mood episodes, such as full manic episodes or depressive episodes. While there may be some mood elevation that influences work and social interactions, individuals with hypomania usually maintain a level of functioning that does not result in the severe consequences reflected in job loss or impaired social interactions. The presence of significant depressive symptoms is not characteristic of hypomania either; rather, it may be indicative of bipolar disorder in a different phase. Thus, the unique quality of decreased sleep in hypomania reflects its distinct nature within mood disorders.