What is the Difference Between Hypomania A Mixed Episode and Social Anxiety? – Vol. 543, April 2, 2020
This was a question that was asked on Quora by a person whose psychiatrist told them that he possibly had social anxiety when he thought he had bipolar confusing this person even more. There is a huge tendency for people to use psychiatric terms without fully understanding what they mean, so it is important to clarify these designations. Though, it is my opinion that it is best to stop using these technical terms that as you can see, even the professionals mix up, and instead speak about the thoughts and behaviors that are problematic. This person may have had what we call in the psychiatric world ‘comorbidity’ meaning having two or more diagnoses. Here is how I answered the question:
This is an interesting question. Thanks for asking it.
Hypomania is when one has a euphoric feeling, whereas with a mixed episode you feel euphoric and depressed at the same time. it has nothing whatever to do with social anxiety disorders. Here is the definition of Mixed Episodes in Bipolar Disorder on WebMD:
“Mixed episodes are defined by symptoms of mania and depression that occur at the same time or in rapid sequence without recovery in between. Mania with mixed features usually involves irritability, high energy, racing thoughts and speech, and overactivity or agitation.”
Definition of Social Anxiety from Anxiety and Depression Association “The defining feature of social anxiety disorder, also called social phobia, is intense anxiety or fear of being judged, negatively evaluated, or rejected in a social or performance situation. … The average age of onset for social anxiety disorder is during the teenage years.”
I would ask your therapist to better define why it is that s/he feels that you have the two different diagnoses because they are in fact two separate diagnoses. Then I would ask your self if you are going to be more concerned with a diagnosis or working to control the symptoms so you can gain control of your own life. Because, in the end, you can either let your mental illness control you, or you can control it.
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About Suzanne
Suzanne Kellner-Zinck founded Dawning Visions Hypnosis in 2002, She has become an innovator in the use of hypnotism and neuro-linguistic programming in the areas of obsessive compulsive disorders such as: eating disorders, sexual addiction and substance abuse as well as working with those with anxiety and mood disorders.
Her clients have come to work with her from across the United States and as far away as Africa to help them to finally be freed from these emotional issues that once ruled their lives. Today she is in the process of bringing her work to many more in the form of ebooks and other downloadable formats.
She is a member of American Holistic Medical Association and the American College for Advancement in Medicine.
Prior to founding Dawning Visions Hypnosis, Kellner-Zinck worked within vendor programs for the mentally ill working to help them to live up to their fullest potential. Many of her previous clients were able to move out on their own and find fulfilling work.
Kellner-Zinck is a Certified Trainer of Hypnosis and Neuro-Linguistic programing through Tad James Company, Inc. and a Master Hypnotist and Master Practitioner of Neuro-Linguistic Programming through Advanced Neuro Dynamics. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education and political studies from Curry College.
Dawning Visions Hypnosis is teaching people that they can indeed leave their unwanted behaviors behind as they move forward to living fulfilling and joy filled lives.