Spring fever! That is what I call the hypomania I experience every spring here in the Northern hemisphere. It is a “wired but tired” feeling or just wired which also includes irritability for me with a dash of impatience. It is the physical internal pressure to keep busy, keep moving, organize, clean, shop, socialize, and be impulsive with actions and decisions.
But why does this happen during this time of year for many of us with bipolar disorder and what can we do about it? There are a couple of theories:
- Spring mania is triggered by longer daylight hours. To combat the effects of this it is suggested to use warmer light bulbs such as those that are 2700K versus the bright daylight ones. It can also be helpful to use black-out curtains in your bedroom to block the earlier morning sun and to close the curtains in your house by late afternoon to limit extra light exposure.
- Spring mania is triggered by disrupted circadian rhythm and affects melatonin production. Circadian rhythm is the body’s internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles and melatonin production (the hormone that makes you sleepy). Both are influenced by dark and light signals. To cope with these disruptions it is best to maintain a consistent daily schedule for getting out of bed, eating meals, engaging in activities, and going to bed at the same time each night. Also, reducing caffeine, alcohol, and general environmental stimulation can be helpful. Discussing possible medication adjustments with your doctor to deal with the seasonal shift may be warranted as well.
Do you experience spring mania? What does that look like for you and what have you found to be helpful in dealing with it?
Write into the Light 