A mood episode that resembles mania but lasts at least four days is called what?

• A. Manic episode
• B. Hypomanic episode
• C. Major depressive episode
• D. Panic Attack

Answer: (B)

A mood episode that resembles mania but lasts at least four days fits hypomania. Hypomania involves an elevated or irritable mood with increased energy for a minimum of four consecutive days, with noticeable changes in functioning that are observable by others. However, it does not cause marked impairment or require hospitalization, and there are no psychotic features. Mania, in contrast, lasts at least a week (unless hospitalization is needed) and typically causes significant impairment or psychotic symptoms. A major depressive episode is defined by depressed mood or loss of interest for at least two weeks, and a panic attack is a sudden surge of intense fear with physical symptoms, not a sustained mood episode. So the described four-day duration aligns with a hypomanic episode.