What is a key symptom of mania in bipolar disorder?

A key symptom of mania in bipolar disorder is the experience of feeling invincible. This feeling often manifests as an inflated sense of self-esteem or grandiosity, which is a defining characteristic of a manic episode. Individuals may believe that they are capable of achieving extraordinary feats, leading them to engage in behaviors that they normally would avoid, such as taking excessive risks or making impulsive decisions without considering potential consequences.

In the context of bipolar disorder, mania is marked not only by this feeling of invincibility but also by increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and heightened activity levels. These symptoms can contribute to a disconnection from reality, making the individual more vulnerable to engaging in reckless behaviors.

The other options, such as sadness, fatigue, and withdrawal, are more characteristic of depressive episodes rather than manic ones. Understanding these nuances helps in accurately identifying the symptoms associated with different phases of bipolar disorder.