What describes the phenomenon of "flight of ideas"?

The phenomenon of "flight of ideas" is characterized by a rapid shifting of thoughts where there is a discernible connection between different ideas. This occurs often in manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder but can also surface in other situations, such as during periods of extreme anxiety or heightened arousal. The hallmark of flight of ideas is not just the speed of thoughts but the way they are woven together, allowing a listener to grasp the underlying themes or connections that the individual is making, even as the ideas shift quickly.

In contrast, disconnected thoughts lacking relation would indicate a more disorganized thought process, while a static pattern of thinking suggests a lack of variation or movement in thoughts. A consistently logical train of thought would imply stability and coherence, which does not align with the rapid and shifting nature of flight of ideas. Therefore, the defining feature of flight of ideas remains the rapid movement through a series of interconnected thoughts, distinguishing it from purely disorganized or static thinking patterns.