Anxiety can trigger bipolar mood swings.

[crosinski]

I just learned that anxiety can trigger bipolar mood swings, even if you’ve achieved a good balance with your medication. I must have missed that part in the beginner’s manual, because I thought the medication handled mood swings.

I learned this the hard way. For a couple of weeks, I was extremely anxious about some work I had said I’d do for a friend, and I felt myself slipping into a depression. My friend found someone else to handle the work, and my depression eased. My psychiatrist says that it’s well known that anxiety can cause bipolar mood swings, but I’ll post this here in case it’s news to someone else, too.

[RandySF]

1. I also know this too well.

[crosinski]

4. The balance is more fragile than I realized.

Good luck with your balance.

[RandySF]

6. My problem was that anxiety would turn into irrational anger.

Medication and mindfulness helped me manage that part.

[crosinski]

7. Ah mindfulness ...

That’s interesting that it helps you with your anger. I meditate. I realize they aren’t the same thing … but they cross paths. Meditation helps me with my anxiety.

[SSJVegeta]

2. When i notice thst happening, I immediately try to tone out most stimuli,

Focus on my breath, calming music and a calming picture if possible...


(If possible, of course)

[crosinski]

5. This makes sense.

Limit and control the flow of 'stuff' coming at you. Even though I’ve been diagnosed with Bipolar for quite a few years, this anxiety/depression link is totally new to me. I appreciate hearing how others handle it.

[Skittles]

3. always good to be aware of triggers

you can take steps to alleviate stress before it gets out of hand