Is this Hypomania or just normal happy (Ritalin boost) mood??

[Blahblah]

I need feedback here. Diagnosis is major/chronic longterm depression (20 years). I can't even identify distinct "episodes" or breaks from it. I'm always low mood, depressed, worthless & discouraged (often intolerably so). I've been on my med combo for quite awhile (Lamictal & now Ritalin) I have recently changed my work/ living environment, and as result, becoming much busier - more hyper-focused on working, thinking, reading and writing. More socially engaged too.

Basically, happy. Mentally engaged (without ruminations) for the first time in over 10 years.... It is very foreign/weird for me to feel this way. I do NOT have sleep issues (sleep 8-9 hours every night), eat well, energy level is normal, no destructive or risky behaviors of any kind (i.e. feeling on top of world, spending sprees, drinking alot, risky behaviors). I just feel really motivated, determined, engaged and good.

Only other behavior is talking and writing A LOT. (I don't have racing thoughts or speech.) Just overdoing these 2 things. Also, I notice I've been more impatient. Like thinking to myself " let's get this done already, get on with it...."  Does this seem like Hypomania?  Or is this just a bit of a safe "elevated mood?" Should I be worried? I want to maintain this mood state. I can't handle being severely depressed any longer & I'm so afraid when it will return.

[aura]

I can relate to this. After starting clozapine my mood has been running a bit fast, and I've been wondering if it's hypomania. I've decided that as long as I'm not having bad symptoms like driving recklessly and buying 20 pairs of jeans, that I'm not going to worry about it. I hope things work out well for you.

[Eilatan]

It soounds like your meds are working well for you! Ime hypomania always goes along with a lack of sleep and crazy energy supplies. 

[Rabbit37]

Yeah, this doesn’t really sound worrisome. As above, the first I start noticing is sleep disruptions. Talking a lot, idk, but writing a lot could just be you getting back into the groove. I paint, and it can be safely obsessive without indicating a mood swing. 

Unless things begin changing, I’d say, enjoy it! It’s a much needed break for you. 

[Riggs1]

I would talk to your pdoc about the change in speech. I know you didn’t say you’re bipolar but for others reading this who are I’m of the opinion that no one with a bipolar diagnosis should ever be on stimulant medications. ADHD meds will send me off the deep end in my illness.

Edited November 28, 2018 by Riggs1

[Alien Navel Cord]

Sounds kinda like me. I've been hypo manic for about a month now and it is just as you describe it to be. I am not sure of course because I am not a doctor but I am glad you are doing well.