Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with a hypomanic episode?

In a hypomanic episode, the symptoms typically include an elevated or irritable mood, increased goal-directed activities, inflated self-esteem, and decreased need for sleep. These characteristics reflect the heightened energy and motivation often present during such episodes.

Hallucinations, on the other hand, are not a symptom of hypomania. They are more commonly associated with manic episodes or severe mood disorders such as bipolar disorder when the mood is significantly elevated and psychosis can occur. In a hypomanic episode, while certain mood disturbances are evident, they do not reach the severity or context in which hallucinations would present.

Therefore, understanding the distinctions between the symptoms of hypomania and other mood-related disturbances is key in identifying the characteristics of hypomanic episodes correctly.