How long does the «warning signs» phase usually last? I’ve been having warning signs/manic symptoms for a week, but I’m not manic yet. I wondering if it will just not develop into mania, or if the initial phase can last longer. Usually it does not last this long without turning into mania for me. My symptoms varies in intensity all the time, sometimes I’m almost manic, but then two hours later I’m much more normal. Sometimes I even feel very depressed for a few hours, but I always have intense mood swings before a manic episode. Anyone else? So I don’t know what to think. How long do you have symptoms or warning signs before a manic episode?