Which symptom is a characteristic of manic episodes?

In manic episodes, a hallmark symptom is increased goal-directed activity or energy. This can manifest in various ways, including engaging in numerous projects simultaneously, exhibiting restlessness, and demonstrating a heightened sense of productivity. Individuals may feel an overwhelming drive to achieve goals, often with little regard for the practicality or feasibility of their ambitions. This surge in motivation and activity is a defining aspect of mania, distinguishing it from other mood states.

The other symptoms listed, while they can occur in various contexts, do not align with the characteristics of a manic episode. Persistent low mood is indicative of depressive episodes, sleep disturbances can be a feature but are not specific to mania, and loss of appetite is more commonly associated with depression rather than the elevated mood or increased energy found in mania. Thus, increased goal-directed activity is the symptom that distinctly characterizes manic episodes in the context of DSM-5 criteria.