Which statement correctly describes Mania Criteria?

• A. A distinct period of elevated mood lasting at least one week.
• B. Mood must be depressed.
• C. It must last at least two days.
• D. It must be caused by substances.

Answer: (A)

Mania is defined by a distinct period of abnormally elevated, expansive, or irritable mood with increased energy and activity, lasting at least one week (unless hospitalization is needed). The option describing a distinct period of elevated mood for at least one week fits exactly this duration and mood pattern, making it the correct description.

Describing mood as depressed would point to a depressive episode, not mania. A duration of two days is too short for mania (four days is the threshold for hypomania, while mania requires at least a week). And mania is not defined by being caused by substances; while substances can induce mood changes, true mania, by standard criteria, is not diagnosed as substance-induced.