1. Stressful Events
Many people with bipolar disorder are most affected by stressful events in their lives. Stress serves as a trigger for both manic and depressive episodes. Stressful events can include work situations, financial difficulties and the death of a loved one. Although these are not the only sources of stress, it is important to learn which situations cause the most stress and find ways to minimize responses to them.
2. Drug or Alcohol Abuse
Drug or alcohol abuse is never a good idea, but for the person with bipolar disorder it can trigger a serious episode. Persons with bipolar disorder may choose to self-medicate with either drugs or alcohol in an attempt to control their moods. This cycle, however, only serves to exacerbate the situation.
3. Too Little or Too Much Sleep
For a person with bipolar disorder, too much or too little sleep can be a trigger. A regular sleep cycle is important to keep the brain functioning on an even keel. One of the hallmarks of a depressive episode is usually sleeping too much. On the other hand, a person in a manic episode may sleep very little or not at all. Without the regulating power of sleep, it is difficult to adjust and allow bipolar medications to work as prescribed.
4. Underlying Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions can interfere with a person's regular functioning and trigger a bipolar episode. Thyroid disease, high blood pressure or other serious medical conditions can trigger hormonal or other responses in the body that changes the way a person with bipolar disorder views their situation. Other medical conditions can trigger emotional responses that a bipolar person is unable to manage without intervention.
5. Stopping or Changing Medications
One of the most serious causes of a bipolar trigger is stopping or changing medications. Stopping medications is especially dangerous to predict since a person with bipolar disorder may not be able to function at all without them. It is not uncommon, however, for someone to stop taking their medication in order to avoid a "drugged" feeling that they may experience as a result of balancing their moods. Changing medication or adding herbal remedies may also cause similar results. Never change bipolar medications or add herbal remedies without the supervision of the treating physician.
