When a patient arrives in the emergency room, he is restless and irritable with unlimited energy and a rapid rate of speech. The attending psychiatrist believes the patient has taken cocaine or amphetamines and admits him for observation. The next day the symptoms are the same, which suggests that the symptoms are not caused by drugs. Which of the following episodes did the patient likely experience?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described in the scenario are consistent with a manic episode, which is often characterized by increased energy, restlessness, irritable mood, and rapid speech. While drug use can sometimes produce similar symptoms, the fact that the symptoms persisted after the drugs should have worn off suggests that the underlying cause is not drug use.

When a Patient Arrives in the Emergency Room, He Is