What feature defines rapid speech in a manic episode?

In a manic episode, one of the defining characteristics of rapid speech is the "pressured and fast delivery." This means that individuals often speak at an unusually fast pace, and they may feel a compulsion to continue speaking without pauses. This manner of communication reflects an increased level of energy and urgency, which is symptomatic of mania. The pressured aspect also indicates that the person may feel that they must share their thoughts quickly, sometimes resulting in a stream-of-consciousness manner of speaking. This behavior can often make it difficult for others to interject or keep up with the conversation, as the need to express their thoughts overtakes the normal rhythm of speech.

Other characteristics of manic episodes can involve changes in volume or tone of voice, but the hallmark of rapid speech remains its pressure and speed, which captures the frantic nature of the state.