National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which term describes an extremely elevated mood, energy level, and unusual thought patterns?

1. Depressive phase

2. Hypomania

3. Manic episode

4. Stable mood

The correct answer is: Manic episode

The term that defines an extremely elevated mood, high energy levels, and unusual thought patterns is a manic episode. A manic episode is characterized by a distinct period during which an individual experiences an abnormally elevated or irritable mood, increased activity or energy, and other symptoms that can significantly disrupt daily functioning. The symptoms can include racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep, distractibility, and engaging in risky behaviors. Understanding the context of manic episodes is crucial, as they are a core component of bipolar disorder. During these episodes, individuals may also display impulsive behavior or grandiosity that can lead to detrimental consequences. The other options suggest different states of mood and energy. The depressive phase refers to low energy and mood, hypomania is similar to mania but less severe, often not causing significant impairment, and a stable mood indicates a balanced emotional state without the extreme fluctuations seen in manic episodes. Each of these terms represents a distinct phase or condition, making it important to identify manic episodes specifically when discussing elevated mood and energy.