Euphoria refers to an intense feeling of extreme happiness. It can be linked to situations in which well-being hormones are produced in large quantities. Euphoria is also a condition found in certain psychiatric syndromes, including bipolar disorder.

The term euphoria was introduced by Friedler in 1875 to refer to the welfare of morphine users. The medical term euphoria denotes an inadequate expression (the situation is not conducive to such a state) of physical and moral well-being, contentment, self-confidence, elation and excitement, in a patient with the feeling of doing well or better.

In the common sense, euphoria refers to an intense sensation of extreme happiness that can go as far as a state of overexcitement. 

Euphoria can be linked to a significant production of endorphins, these hormones of happiness, in athletes during extreme physical performance or in people addicted to their work.

Euphoria can occur in people who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs because their consumption leads to the release of dopamine and endorphins, hormones of happiness, who have taken certain medications, as well as in people who are craving. oxygen (at altitude).

Euphoria can also be a condition found in psychiatric syndromes or be one of the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. 

During the sexual act, anxieties and fears are forgotten by a disconnection of the “thinking” brain. The brain secretes more endorphins, which creates a certain euphoria. Other hormones produced during orgasm, oxytocin and prolactin also cause a feeling of euphoria. 

This feeling of post-sex euphoria lasts for up to two days after intercourse. 

Bipolar disorders or manic-depressive illness are characterized by an alternation of depressive episodes and manic episodes. Manic episodes correspond to a period of intense excitement and euphoria.