Which term refers to periods of excessively elevated mood in bipolar disorder?

The correct term for periods of excessively elevated mood in bipolar disorder is manic episodes. In the context of bipolar disorder, a manic episode is characterized by a distinct period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood, lasting at least one week (or any duration if hospitalization is necessary). During a manic episode, individuals often exhibit increased energy, activity, and a reduced need for sleep. Additionally, they may experience grandiosity, racing thoughts, excessive talkativeness, distractibility, and engaging in activities with a high potential for painful consequences, such as impulsive spending or risky behaviors.

Other terms in the question do not apply in the same way. Depressive episodes refer to the low mood states seen in bipolar disorder, stable periods indicate times when symptoms are controlled or absent, and neutral states are not clinically defined terms within the context of bipolar disorder. Thus, manic episodes are the distinctive periods recognized in the diagnosis and understanding of bipolar disorder.