What sign indicates a patient is about to experience a manic phase?

The indication that a patient is about to experience a manic phase is typically marked by restless changes in sleep. In a manic episode, individuals often exhibit decreased need for sleep or significant changes in their sleeping patterns, which may also include restlessness and agitation. This loss of typical sleep patterns can serve as a warning sign that a manic phase is approaching, as people may feel overly energized or unable to relax.

In contrast, increased appetite, depressed mood, and withdrawal from social interactions are more commonly associated with depressive episodes rather than manic ones. A manic phase is characterized by elevated mood, increased activity levels, and heightened energy, making the changes in sleep a critical signal for the onset of this phase.