Symptoms of bipolar disorder can be triggered in different ways, ranging from lack of exercise to getting married. An episode of manic depression (the “old” name for bipolar disorder) can be caused by something as simple as a poor night’s sleep! Once the triggers of bipolar disorder are recognized, managing the illness is easier.
These are possible triggers of mania or depression; what sets off symptoms for one person may not affect another person at all.
Lifestyle Triggers of Bipolar Disorder
- Lack of sleep. Changes in sleep patterns, especially sleep deprivation, can lead to episodes of mania or depression. Going to bed and getting up at the same time can stabilize moods and hormones.
- Alcohol or drug use. Alcohol use can trigger depression. Illegal drugs are also potential triggers and have different effects: tranquilizers can trigger depression and “uppers” can trigger mania.
- Unhealthy habits. Lack of exercise can trigger either mania or depression, as can eating foods high in sugar (or other unhealthy foods). An unpredictable life schedule is also a trigger for symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Major Life Events That Can Trigger Bipolar Disorder
- Change in employment. Problems at work (or school) can lead to symptoms of manic depression; job loss, a search for new employment, and adjusting to a new work environment are particularly stressful. Problems with money can lead to an episode of depression.
- Relationships. Divorce, separation, or the loss of a romantic partner can trigger bipolar disorder. Difficult personal relationships or the death or illness of a loved one can also lead to symptoms, particularly of depression.
- Major life changes. Any stressful life event such as moving to a new city, state/province, or country, can lead to an episode of manic depression. Even happy life events – such as getting married or winning the lottery – can upset equilibrium.
Physical Factors That Can Trigger Bipolar Disorder
- Seasonal Changes. Episodes of mania are more common in the summer; episodes of depression are more likely to occur in the winter. The light fluctuations make a difference.
- Menstruation. Every woman is affected differently by hormonal cycles, which can trigger symptoms of bipolar disorder. Regulating hormones can be an effective way to manage episodes of mania or depression.
- Thyroid changes. The thyroid keeps the body stabilized and functioning smoothly. Changes in thyroid levels can cause fatigue and weight gain, and can also trigger manic depression.
How to Track the Triggers of Bipolar Disorder
Keeping a journal of hormonal cycles, foods eaten, sleep patterns, life events, work stress, exercise habits, and all lifestyle habits can people manage manic depression. To track triggers and moods, take a few minutes at the beginning of each hour to write down experiences with the above potential triggers of bipolar disorder. After a month, review the events and symptoms with a doctor or mental health practitioner.
Learning the connection between life events and symptoms of manic depression can help people manage both – and lead a happy, centered life!
Resources for Bipolar and Other Psychological Disorders
Helping Someone With a Psychological Disorder offers five ways to help someone with a mental illness. To learn more about manic depression, read Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder.
Visit Resources for Overcoming Depression for links to almost 20 articles on psychological disorders (mostly treatments for depression).
Source:
- Bipolar 101: A Practical Guide to Identifying Triggers, Managing Medications, Coping With Symptoms, and More by Ruth C. White and John D. Preston. (New Harbinger Publications, 2009).
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