As the chill of winter gives way to the promise of warmer weather, longer days, and a renewed sense of energy and vitality, spring eagerly anticipated by most people, but for those living with bipolar disorder, it can be a very fraught time of year.
This is because the arrival of spring can trigger a complex and challenging phenomenon known as ‘spring mania’ or ‘spring fever’ and sadly very few people are even aware it exists, which makes it impossible for them to recognise the onset and manage the impact on their mental health.
As a person living with bipolar disorder myself, I wish I had known about spring mania years ago as it would have saved me much angst, so I want to share this information far and wide because, in extreme cases, spring mania can be dangerous or even life-threatening.
Many sufferers may experience manic or hypomanic episodes during the spring months, characterised by a very elevated mood, increased energy, impulsivity, and decreased need for sleep.
This can result in behaviours such as excessive spending or dangerous sexual practices and, even more troublingly, a study conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in 2021 has uncovered a critical connection between spring mania, bipolar disorder, and an elevated risk of suicide.
A compelling study conducted by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 2021 found that there has been a marked increase in the prevalence of spring mania in recent years. with around 40% of individuals with bipolar disorder now experiencing heightened manic episodes during the spring months
The length and severity of spring mania varies from person to person, but it can generally be associated with the following trigger factors:
- Increased Light: The longer daylight hours of spring can affect individuals with bipolar disorder. People with bipolar disorder are thought to have disrupted circadian rhythms — the body’s natural 24-hour clock – so more exposure to natural light can disrupt sleep patterns and potentially trigger or exacerbate manic symptoms.
- Altered Routines: Changes in the season often lead to shifts in daily routines, which can disrupt sleep and stability—a critical factor for individuals managing bipolar disorder.
- Stimulating Environment: Spring’s vibrant and stimulating environment can trigger excitement and impulsivity in individuals with bipolar disorder.
- Social Engagement: The arrival of spring often leads to increased social gatherings and activities, which can affect mood stability and energy levels.
- Allergies: Seasonal allergies, common in spring, can exacerbate physical discomfort and affect overall well-being, potentially impacting mood symptoms.
If your bipolar disorder tends to follow a seasonal pattern, you may have an increased risk for spring mania so it’s important to learn to recognise increasing restlessness in early spring and then take steps to prevent the feelings from escalating.
If you or a loved one experiences spring mania as part of bipolar disorder, there are a number of strategies to help manage this challenging phenomenon:
Stay Connected with Treatment: Consistent treatment and medication management are crucial. Continue working closely with your mental health care provider to ensure that your treatment plan is effective and adjusted as needed.
Mindful Awareness: Pay attention to your emotions and energy levels. If you notice significant mood swings or shifts in your behaviour, consider keeping a mood journal to track patterns and discuss them with a mental health professional. Because if you find you are suddenly doing more, going out more and needing less sleep it, you need to stop and take stock.
Maintain Routine: Stick to a regular daily routine, including sleep and meal schedules. A structured routine can help stabilize mood and prevent impulsive behaviours associated with mania.
Limit Light Exposure: For some individuals, excessive exposure to natural light, especially in the evening, can disrupt sleep patterns and trigger manic episodes. Consider adjusting your daily routine to limit light exposure during the late hours.
Set Boundaries: While social engagement is essential for mental health, it’s equally important to set boundaries to avoid overextending yourself during the spring season. Prioritize self-care and communicate your needs with loved ones.
Medication Management: If you have a diagnosed mood disorder, work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure that your medication regimen is appropriate for the changing season. Adjustments may be necessary.
Allergy Management: If seasonal allergies worsen your bipolar symptoms, consult an allergist for effective treatments. Managing allergies can alleviate physical discomfort and potentially reduce mood disturbances.
However, certain ingredients in allergy and decongestant medication can have adverse effects and exacerbate your manic mood so don’t neglect to mention to your doctor that you do have bipolar disorder.
Steer Clear of Caffeine and Alcohol – Stimulants can trigger manic symptoms, especially if there is an abrupt increase in intake. What’s more, people with bipolar disorder have an increased risk of developing an alcohol use disorder compared with the general population.
Keep Tech out of the Bedroom – Good sleep hygiene is critical for people with sensitive circadian rhythms to try and keep all screens, including including cell phones, laptops, and TV outside the bedroom. Light from electronic devices can confuse the brain and keep you awake longer, he adds.
Emergency Plan: Develop a crisis plan in collaboration with your mental health care provider. This plan should outline steps to take if manic symptoms become severe or if there is a risk of harm to oneself or others.
Support System: Lean on your support system, including family, friends, and support groups. Open and honest communication about your mental health can help others understand and provide assistance when needed.
While the arrival of spring brings joy and renewal to many, it can also pose unique challenges and be a very difficult time for individuals living with bipolar disorder.
However, by understanding the factors that trigger spring mania and having a proactive plan in place, it’s possible to navigate this season more effectively and maintain stability in their mental health.
Ultimately, with the right treatment, support, and strategies, individuals with bipolar disorder can manage their condition and lead fulfilling lives, regardless of the changing seasons.
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