Bipolar and hyper-sociability

Do you have times when your calendar is jam-packed? When you make friends more easily and spend more time chatting to people? If so, this page can help you understand if a period of hyper-sociability could be a sign of hypomania – and the steps you can take.

Is hyper-sociability a common symptom of hypomania? 

Yes. Increased energy and hyper-sociability are common symptoms of high mood in bipolar.

During a period of hyper-sociability, you may: 

• say yes to every invitation and make lots of social plans 
• spend more time on the phone and on social media than usual 
• form friendships with people you’ve only just met – both online and in person 
• be more likely to smoke, drink alcohol or take illegal drugs

When is hyper-sociability more likely to happen? 

For people living with bipolar, hyper-sociability can be triggered by lots of different factors, including:

• stress – caused by things like exams, bereavement, trauma or divorce 
• change – caused by things like a new relationship or job, or a house move 
• jetlag – if you fly across time zones 
• substances – an excess of alcohol or caffeine, or illegal drug use 
• medication – if you don’t take it regularly, or a prescription change

What does hyper-sociability during hypomania feel like? 

The signs and symptoms of bipolar are varied and unique to each individual. Here, one woman living with bipolar shares her experiences of hypomania:  

What causes hyper-sociability during hypomania?

Researchers don’t know exactly what causes hyper-sociability during hypomania.  

However, some evidence suggests that life events involving social-rhythm disruption (events that affect sleep or wake times, patterns of social stimulation, or daily routines) have been linked to high mood.  

Is hyper-sociability always a symptom of high mood in bipolar?

No. Hyper-sociability is not always a sign of high mood.  

Some people are naturally more outgoing, sociable and talkative, regardless of whether or not they have a mental health condition.

How do I know if hyper-sociability is a symptom of hypomania? 

Hyper-sociability is more likely to be a symptom of hypomania if:  

• being talkative and sociable is ‘out of character’ for you 
• you have more energy, enthusiasm, excitement and confidence than usual 
• you have at least two other symptoms of hypomania at the same time
• you’ve been feeling more sociable for at least four days
• you’ve been through periods of hyper-sociability before
  

What happens if I ignore a period of hyper-sociability? 

In the short-term, a period of hyper-sociability can lead to new friendships, strengthening your support network.  

However, a prolonged period of high energy and hyper-sociability can lead to exhaustion.

Also, when you’re talking to people, you may jump between topics, over-share, interrupt, lose your social filters and say things you don’t mean. This can cause the breakdown of vital relationships.  

If your hyper-sociability is a symptom of bipolar, ignoring a period of hypomania can:

• disrupt your work, college or university life 
• impact your relationships with family, friends and colleagues  
• increase your risk of impulsive decision-making, such as reckless driving or unsafe sexual behaviour 
• damage your long-term financial security due to overspending and risky investments 
• lead to a manic episode, which usually needs treatment in hospital

What to do next 

1. Use these five proven stress-busters to help you relax
2. Try these tips if you find the Christmas period difficult 
3. Track your mood with our free range of resources
4. Get support from our friendly Peer Support team
5. Book an appointment with your GP or psychiatrist as soon as you can