Most psychiatrists will tell you, I think, that the hypomanic state is a reaction to depression rather than a defense mechanism--maybe they're synonymous, but I distinguish some
difference in meaning between the two.

Cyclothymia is considered a mild form of bipolar disorder. Bipolar I is the most severe
form; Bipolar II is related to strong depressive states that are very painful, but no manic
states; hypomanic states occur in Bipolar, type II. There are also now Bipolar III
and Bipolar IV diagnoses. (And one called Bipolar NOS, meaning no conclusive evidence
has been determined as to which form of bipolar illness it is)

The overly severe conscience is very much part of bipolar illness for some.