Why recognizing triggers matters

Imagine the wildest or scariest roller coaster you’ve been on. Did it have twists and turns? Flip you upside down and all the way around? That’s exactly what it feels like for those with a diagnosed mood disorder. Their emotions are on this never-ending ride of up and down, and it feels like the person has no control over the ride. 

Bipolar disorder is something that affects approximately 4.4% of adults in the U.S., at least once in their lives. Formerly known as manic-depressive disorder, bipolar disorder (I or II) impacts men and women equally. This mood disorder is characterized by various symptoms including: 

1. Dramatic shifts in mood 
2. Loss of energy or feeling sluggish 
3. Less ability to complete day-to-day tasks 
4. Extreme elevated and depressive mood switches 
5. Difficulty maintaining relationships with others 

Let’s take a look at a fictional example of what bipolar disorder might look like. Grace just gave birth to her second child, Amelia, and is experiencing a confusing wave of emotions. Her husband John is overcome with joy, and can’t believe they finally have a little girl. However, Grace doesn’t remember feeling this way after having her first son, Greg. 

Grace feels like she can’t get a handle on her emotions. She’ll go a few weeks feeling like she’s the best mom in the world, and the next few weeks, she feels like she’s a failure who can’t do anything right. 

Grace is so exhausted constantly watching over Amelia that she goes days without sleeping. She feels too tired to warm up Amelia’s bottle, or change her own clothes. Without meaning to do so, one night she snaps at John after he asks if she’s feeling alright. Along with the possibility of bipolar disorder, this may be a specific sign of postpartum bipolar disorder.

It’s important to know that if you recognize any of the signs or triggers mentioned in Grace’s story in yourself or others, you should reach out for help, even if they don’t occur postpartum. Being aware of bipolar triggers, and learning what signs to look for in yourself, or someone else who might have bipolar disorder is empowerment, not blame. With the proper treatment and diagnosis, clients with bipolar disorder can learn to live balanced lives. 

7 common triggers for bipolar depression and mania

• Sleep disruptions — This could look like struggling with insomnia, a change in sleep patterns, or experiencing sleep deprivation.
• Substance use — Alcohol and stimulant drugs can exacerbate symptoms of depression and/or induce hypomanic symptoms.
• Seasonal shifts/light exposure — Some clients find that their moods are affected by the amount of light or darkness that certain seasons bring.
• Stress or burnout — Major stressors such as losing one’s job, ending a relationship, or struggling financially can be a common trigger for depressive episodes.
• Medication changes or missed doses — Depressive episodes and/or hypomanic episodes can be triggered by the stopping of various medications, or even adjusting the dose of a medication.
• Experiencing physical illness — People living with a chronic illness, or feeling physically unwell can trigger a depressive episode.
• Sensory overload or overstimulation — For some people, treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can induce manic episodes, though it’s rare. 

How psychotherapy helps you identify and respond to triggers

Here at Lightfully, we utilize our Precision Care Model (PCM) which centers on four core processes that contribute to your mental health issue. With this model, each client receives their own treatment plan personalized specifically for their needs. PCM uses evidence-based modalities such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to touch on the four core processes including: 

1. Difficulty with emotions 
2. Difficulty with thoughts
3. Difficulty with behaviors 
4. Difficult with relationships 

How Lightfully supports bipolar disorder treatment

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) — Also known as our Day Treatment Program, our PHP includes frequent individual therapy sessions and weekly meetings with a psychiatrist. 
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — A personalized treatment plan which includes three to six hours of programming during the day. 
• Residential Treatment Center (RTC) — A nurturing intimate setting, where personalized treatment is offered in a homelike setting. Includes frequent individual therapy sessions for the client. 
• Virtual PHP & IOP — We offer our PHP and IOP services virtually, open to residents of California.

Stability is possible, and life with bipolar disorder is manageable. Our exceptionally compassionate experts can help you begin to manage your symptoms and lead happy lives. Give yourself permission to reach out and ask for help.You don’t have to do this yourself. 

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. Whether you’re navigating triggers or searching for steadier ground, Lightfully is here to walk with you.