Introduction to Bipolar Disorder

Triggers for Bipolar Disorder

In many cases, onset of manic and/or depressive episodes is clearly associated with precipitating events called triggers or stressors that are consistently evident before the onset of a bipolar episode. Common triggers include:

• Sleep loss (triggers mania but not depression)
• Substance abuse
• Sudden discontinuation of certain drugs (e.g., lithium)
• Prior use of antidepressants
• Trauma
• Grief
• Change of seasons

According to the American Psychiatric Association, triggers usually precede an episode in all phases of bipolar disorder.