30th January 2024

James, a 27-year-old accountant, is brought to the GP by his girlfriend, who is worried about his recent behaviour

James, a 27-year-old accountant, is brought to the GP by his girlfriend, who is worried about his recent behaviour. Over the last week, she has noticed that James stays awake late into the night working on a ‘brilliant novel’ that he is convinced is going to be a bestseller. James says that he doesn’t feel the ‘slightest bit tired’. He has been going to work as usual but finds himself unable to focus on his job because ideas for his novel keep coming to him. He speaks at a rapid pace, and the GP struggles to interrupt him, with James often straying from the present subject of conversation and bringing up his newfound talent for gardening.

Which of the following suggests a diagnosis of mania or hypomania?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.