Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS)

Introduction
The Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) is a clinical assessment tool specifically designed to evaluate manic symptoms and their severity. Developed in the 1970s by Young et al., the YMRS is now widely utilized in both research and clinical settings to measure manic episodes, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder. This scale provides a structured method for quantifying the presence and intensity of mania based on direct patient interviews and observations made by clinicians.

The YMRS comprises 11 items, each focusing on a different aspect of mania such as elevated mood, increased motor activity-energy, sexual interest, sleep, irritability, and speech patterns. Each item is rated on a scale that varies in range, typically from 0 to 4 or 0 to 8, allowing for a nuanced measurement of symptoms. The total score can range from 0 to 60, with higher scores indicating more severe manic symptoms. This allows the YMRS to capture a wide spectrum of manic behaviors and states, facilitating differential diagnosis and monitoring of disease progression or remission.

In clinical practice, the YMRS is valued for its straightforward, relatively quick application and its proven reliability and validity. It supports clinicians in making informed decisions regarding treatment strategies and monitoring their efficacy over time. In research contexts, the YMRS serves as a critical tool in studying the efficacy of treatments and the clinical course of mania in psychiatric studies. Its widespread use and acceptance in the psychiatric community underscore its utility in enhancing our understanding and management of bipolar disorder and related manic conditions.

Instructions
The YMRS is typically administered by a third-party clinician, but it is provided here, in a slightly reworded form, as a self-assessment. This may not be as accurate when self-administered, as people suffering from mania are often unable to properly assess relevant outward symptoms.

There are 11 groups of statements in this questionnaire, read each group of statements carefully. Specify one of the choices that best describes the way you have been feeling for the past week by clicking the dot next to the appropriate statement.