Which option best describes a manic episode?

• A. A short-lived period of normal mood
• B. A predominantly anxious mood state
• C. A distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased activity or energy
• D. A chronic irritability without mood change

Answer: (C)

A manic episode is defined by a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with a noticeable increase in activity or energy. This mood and energy elevation lasts most of the day, nearly every day, usually for at least one week, and it causes clear impairment in functioning or requires hospitalization (or there are psychotic features). The option that describes a clearly elevated/expansive/irritable mood paired with increased activity or energy captures these core features. The other descriptions – a short period of normal mood, a predominantly anxious mood, or persistent irritability without a mood change – do not reflect the combination of mood elevation and heightened energy that characterizes mania.