Research

For centuries, people have marveled at the moon’s mystique, wondering about its pull on human emotions. The word “lunacy” is rooted in the Latin luna, meaning “moon,” capturing ancient beliefs about lunar influence on mental health. But is there more than myth here? Modern science is now investigating how moon phases may affect mood, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder.  The belief that the full moon can excite and disturb human behavior is deeply rooted in culture, language and anecdotal lore, but it tends to be regarded as a myth by the scientific community because it is not supported by epidemiological research. The findings are complex and intriguing, revealing subtle rhythms in nature that might interact with the mind; however, modern science largely holds an ambivalent stance.   The basic premise of most lore around the moon’s interaction with human behavior goes as follows: Just like the lunar cycle affects the tides of the ocean, so too does it affect the human body, which is composed of around 60% water.  The Lunar-Bipolar Connection: The Latest Research Recent longitudinal observations show that manic-depressive cycles can become synchronized with lunar cycles, but do so in complex ways that are unlikely to have been detected by past studies.  Among the most compelling research on this topic is Dr. Thomas Wehr’s 2018 study, which delves into the lives of 17 patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder. Wehr’s findings are striking: for some patients, mood cycles appeared to sync with three specific lunar rhythms: The 14.8-day spring-neap cycle The 13.7-day declination cycle The 206-day cycle of perigee-syzygies, known as “supermoons” Some patients experienced mood shifts on every second or third lunar cycle, aligning with the moon’s gravitational pulse on Earth’s tides. This suggests an ebb and flow in the body that might mirror the celestial rhythms we so often overlook. Possible Mechanisms: How the Moon Could Influence Mood The precise mechanisms remain elusive, but researchers have theorized several ways lunar cycles could affect mood in bipolar disorder: Gravitational Pull: The moon’s gravitational force moves oceans, and some scientists speculate it may exert a subtler force on human physiology. Although this theory is unproven, it hints at gravitational shifts subtly affecting the body’s internal rhythms Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Circadian rhythms are the body’s natural timekeepers, regulating sleep, mood, and physical energy. The moon, especially its light during the full moon, might influence this biological clock, which could disrupt sleep and lead to mood shifts in those with bipolar disorder. Individuals with bipolar disorder are highly sensitive to sleep changes, making them potentially more susceptible to disruptions triggered by lunar phases. At BP Harmony, we have observed clients, who are not already biased towards astrological beliefs, express difficulty falling asleep on certain days of the month where the moon is full.  Moonlight and Sleep Patterns: During full moons, increased light may affect sleep quality for some, potentially leading to mood instability. This could indirectly influence bipolar symptoms, as restful sleep is essential for emotional regulation. When sleep falters, especially for those with bipolar disorder, mood disturbances often follow Clinical Implications and Future Directions for Researchers While the evidence of a moon-bipolar connection remains inconclusive, this area of study could hold valuable insights for understanding mood disorders in general because it shows up among BP Harmony clients frequently. We are interested in finding more research with the following considerations: Personalized Monitoring: Given the potential variability, clinicians could consider tracking individual patients for signs of lunar influence on mood and sleep. If patients experience predictable mood patterns in sync with the lunar calendar, this information could guide more tailored treatment. Focus on Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Rapid cycling bipolar disorder, marked by frequent mood shifts within short timeframes, shows the strongest potential for lunar cycle effects. We find these clients are the most sensitive to other environmental changes like temperature, pressure, air quality, pollen, sunlight and even things like smell, sound, and touch. Researching this subset of bipolar disorder may help clarify whether lunar rhythms significantly affect individuals prone to rapid mood changes. Longitudinal Studies: Long-term studies tracking mood and sleep across an entire lunar cycle could provide a more accurate picture of any connection between lunar phases and mood. Such research might reveal hidden patterns over time and highlight which, if any, lunar phases correlate with mood shifts. We are curious to learn if correlation means causation. Biological Pathways: Exploring how lunar cycles might influence melatonin production or other circadian markers could clarify how environmental factors affect mood in bipolar disorder. This research could also identify new avenues for managing the disorder, especially for individuals sensitive to environmental rhythms. Conclusion: Scientifically Unproven, Culturally Significant The idea that lunar cycles might influence bipolar disorder is both captivating and elusive. While some studies find correlations between mood changes and lunar phases, the overall evidence remains inconclusive. This connection appears to be complex, likely affecting only a subset of individuals, particularly those with rapid cycling bipolar disorder. Until more research emerges, it’s best to approach this topic with scientific caution and curiosity. For patients and clinicians alike, the focus should remain on proven strategies for managing bipolar disorder—such as medication, therapies like the BP Harmony Five Pillars, and maintaining stable sleep routines. Still, as science continues to explore how the natural world shapes our inner lives, there’s hope that understanding the rhythms around us could lead to more personalized mental health care. There is, however, no denying the immense influence culture plays in shaping individuals’ beliefs about the moon’s parallel interaction with health; we have noticed this tendency particularly among our female clients. At BP Harmony, we work with clients’ assumed cognitive frames by stating that there is no denying their “experience” with the moon, often running with the assumption of a powerful placebo effect. Regardless of either vantage, there is no doubt that the moon can play a big role in affecting individuals with bipolar disorder if that belief is rooted in their mind already.

Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition distinguished by extreme mood shifts. Hypothyroidism is a state in which a person suffers from abnormally low thyroid gland activity, resulting in metabolic changes in adults. The symptoms between these two illnesses are remarkably similar, which leads to misdiagnoses and improper treatment.  Our holistic approach to mental health encourages us to consider how underlying physical conditions, like hypothyroidism, might impact mental health disorders. By understanding how hypothyroidism can exacerbate or even mimic symptoms of bipolar disorder, we gain new insights into the importance of a whole-body approach to managing mental health. Understanding the Connection Between the Thyroid and Mental Health The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, produces hormones that regulate energy, metabolism, and mood. The body’s ability to regulate these essential functions diminishes when the thyroid is not performing sufficiently, as in hypothyroidism. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, depression, memory problems, weight gain, and slowed cognitive function.   Thyroid dysfunction can directly impact mental health by disrupting neurotransmitter balance, affecting mood stability and cognition. Since neurotransmitters are essential for mood regulation, an underperforming thyroid can lead to symptoms that overlap significantly with mood disorders like bipolar disorder. This overlap can often result in misdiagnoses, where individuals with hypothyroidism might be diagnosed with bipolar disorder when, in reality, addressing their thyroid dysfunction could alleviate their mental health symptoms. In the case that hypothyroidism is a comorbidity, addressing the thyroid gland can significantly lower bipolar symptoms. Symptoms Overlap Between Hypothyroidism and Bipolar Disorder There is a significant overlap in symptoms between hypothyroidism and bipolar disorder, particularly in the depressive phase. Many symptoms of hypothyroidism—such as fatigue, irritability, cognitive slowing, and depression—can also be present in bipolar disorder.This overlap can be particularly challenging when it comes to diagnosis. For instance, during a depressive phase, a person with bipolar disorder may experience severe fatigue, weight changes, and low mood—all of which are also common in hypothyroidism. Conversely, untreated or undiagnosed hypothyroidism may cause mental health symptoms that are wrongly attributed to bipolar disorder, leading to treatment that addresses symptoms without tackling the underlying cause. Unfortunately, in cases where hypothyroidism is undiagnosed, individuals might receive mood stabilizers or antidepressants, which can be ineffective or even counterproductive if thyroid issues remain unaddressed.  Hypothyroidism’s Impact on Neurotransmitters and Mood One key area of research in modern psychiatry is the role of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and norepinephrine, in mood regulation. Hypothyroidism affects the brain’s ability to produce and regulate these neurotransmitters, leading to emotional instability and cognitive difficulties, which may present as symptoms similar to bipolar disorder.  Low thyroid hormone levels can cause a reduction in dopamine, the neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of motivation and pleasure. This decrease in dopamine can result in anhedonia — a loss of interest in enjoyable activities—, low motivation, and feelings of hopelessness. Meanwhile, low serotonin levels, often seen in hypothyroidism, contribute to depression and anxiety. This hormonal imbalance can create the emotional rollercoaster that individuals with bipolar disorder frequently experience.  A Holistic Path to Healing In conventional medicine today, endocrinologists will administer medication and supplements like selenium for individuals with hypothyroidism. At BP Harmony, we are a proponent of integrative, root-cause medicine, advocating for approaches that consider the whole person rather than merely treating symptoms. We argue that conventional treatments often overlook underlying physical causes, like hypothyroidism, that may be contributing to mental health issues.  Hence, we recommend a comprehensive approach for those diagnosed with bipolar disorder that involves screening for thyroid dysfunction alongside other underlying health conditions that might be influencing mental health. Our approach includes working with integrative medicine physicians, making nutritional changes, detoxification, and lifestyle modifications supporting thyroid and mental health.  Nutritional Support for the Thyroid: Diet is one of the foundational elements we emphasize for supporting thyroid health. We suggest minimizing processed foods, refined sugars, and inflammatory substances, which can contribute to hypothyroidism. Instead, a diet rich in whole foods, notably those high in iodine, selenium, and zinc, can support thyroid function. Sea vegetables, seafood, nuts, and whole grains offer nutrients that boost thyroid health, which may positively impact mood stability. Moreover, consider eliminating gluten and dairy, as these two food types are often at the root of thyroid dysfunction. Learn more about the best diet for bipolar disorder here. Detoxification: Toxins such as heavy metals and endocrine disruptors (often found in household chemicals and certain foods) can impair thyroid function. We encourage reducing exposure to these toxins by opting for natural cleaning products, avoiding plastic containers, and choosing organic foods when possible. Detoxification practices such as sweating through exercise or sauna use and consuming antioxidant-rich foods can help the body eliminate these harmful substances. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Chronic stress negatively affects both thyroid and mental health, with elevated cortisol levels inhibiting thyroid hormone production. BP Harmony’s approach includes stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing exercises to lower cortisol levels and support thyroid health. By reducing stress, individuals can foster an environment where mental and thyroid health can improve. Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies: Hypothyroidism is sometimes linked to deficiencies in essential nutrients like vitamin D, B12, and iron. The latest medical research from Harvard Medical School and Cleveland Clinic recommends getting tested for deficiencies and supplementing as necessary, as these nutrients play a critical role in thyroid function and neurotransmitter synthesis. Addressing these nutritional needs through food and supplements if they are incredibly deficient can support overall mood stability and energy levels. The Path Forward This blog post begins to shed light on the intricate relationship between hypothyroidism and bipolar disorder. By understanding how thyroid health can influence mood and mental well-being, individuals with bipolar disorder may have the opportunity to address an underlying physical cause of their symptoms, potentially improving mood stability and overall quality of life.If you or someone you know has bipolar disorder and exhibits symptoms of hypothyroidism, it may be worthwhile to explore this connection with a healthcare provider. A whole-body approach that considers thyroid function,

The experience of bipolar disorder can be summarized by the vacillating, dizzying highs of mania and the crushing, murky lows of depression. The focus of this blog post is to highlight an extreme byproduct of bipolar disorder: psychosis.  Someone who experiences mania for the first time without a diagnosis or any prior history might think they are extra productive, super confident, and utterly invincible. These feelings lead to little to no sleep, thoughts of grandeur, excessive spending possibly, and more irregular behaviors. The dangers of staying in this heightened state are many, but when mixed with things like stress, substance abuse, and trauma, a person can tip over into psychosis. This complex dynamic between bipolar disorder and psychosis can make an already difficult condition even more challenging to navigate. To understand this connection, let’s explore the key elements linking these experiences. Panic Amid the Chaos: A First Look at Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis The Oxford Dictionary defines psychosis as, “a severe mental condition in which thought and emotions are so affected that contact is lost with external reality.” It is this loss of contact with reality that tells if a person experiencing mania has also reached a clinically psychotic state.  For anyone dealing with bipolar disorder, the cycle between mania and depression is disorienting. Imagine, then, the added confusion when panic sets in—not just from the swings themselves but from losing touch with reality. This is what happens when bipolar disorder manic episodes are paired with psychotic features. A person experiencing psychosis may find themselves trapped in a whirlpool of fear and misunderstanding, where they cannot differentiate between what is real and what is imagined. Panic becomes the overriding emotion. People often describe feeling chased by thoughts, images, or sounds that aren’t there, leading to behaviors that are out of character, unpredictable, and often harmful. Psychosis and Mania When we talk about bipolar disorder, especially in its most extreme forms, we’re not just talking about mood swings. In some cases, mania can evolve into something far more severe—bipolar mania with psychotic features. This type of mania doesn’t just involve elation, irritability, or hyperactivity; it can also include episodes of psychosis, where, as mentioned above, individuals lose touch with reality. For some, it means hearing voices or seeing things that aren’t there. For others, it involves delusions—firmly held false beliefs. Imagine believing you are the president of a country, when in fact you are sitting in your living room. Or perhaps you think you’ve been chosen by a higher power to save the world. These delusions and hallucinations are entirely real to the person experiencing them, even though those around them may be baffled by what’s happening. Witness accounts recount how clinically psychotic people believe cryptic messages are coming from the government in the forms of lights, colors, numbers, and even recorded videos on the internet. One can only imagine the chaotic rabbit hole a person experiencing psychosis may go down and find it difficult to come back. What’s important to recognize is that bipolar mania with psychotic features is not uncommon. It’s a significant symptom for many individuals living with bipolar disorder.  Psychosis and Depression While psychosis occurs more commonly with manic episodes, it sometimes occurs during severe depressive episodes. In other words, an individual might cycle between major depressive episodes and manic episodes, sometimes with psychotic features on both ends of the spectrum. During these major depressive episodes, individuals may experience deep hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness. When psychosis enters the picture, these feelings can evolve into delusions of persecution or hallucinations that reinforce negative thoughts. For instance, a person might believe that they are responsible for a catastrophic event or that voices are urging them to commit harmful acts. They may see or hear traumatic memories play in front of them, sending them into a state of fear and panic as if they were experiencing the event all over again.  The severity of these mood swings and their psychotic features can make bipolar disorder particularly unpredictable and dangerous. It’s not just about moving from mania to depression; it’s about dealing with the potential of losing touch with reality during both phases, a fact that makes this condition much more than a simple mood disorder. Guardrails to Protect Against Psychosis For those living with bipolar disorder, especially when psychosis is part of the equation, effective management is key. Medication, including mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, plays a central role in conventional psychiatric care. Psychotherapy, too, can help individuals recognize triggers and develop coping strategies for dealing with episodes of mania, depression, and psychosis. At BP Harmony, we advise people in the psychotic individual’s life (ie their community) to find a person whose opinion the individual respects and to consider the following steps:  This person must listen to the psychotic individual and identify those aspects of the person’s thinking that reflect a disconnect with reality.  Then ask if the person has always had these thoughts or if they are recent. If they are recent, then consider emphasizing that they didn’t see things their current way before. This will identify that there is some change in the person that others are noticing.  Express concern for the individual and invite them to consider the changes in their life due to the state they are in.  Reassure that you will be there to figure things out with them as opposed to suggesting that they need help. This may turn them away and cause them to reject help. The tricky challenge is to somehow get the person who is deeply caught in a false reality to realize on their own they have lost connection with reality. This is where a trusted person, psychiatrist, and therapist can effectively work together. In the meantime, the safest route is to get the person under the right medication or even admit them to a hospital to prevent harm to themselves and others.  Conclusion The connection between bipolar disorder and psychosis is complicated and multifaceted. While not everyone with bipolar

Is there such a thing as having bipolar eyes? At the root of the question for people struggling to identify bipolar disorder in themselves or someone they know is a search for a guaranteed marker for the diagnosis. While this article dives into general tendencies of the eyes during mania and depression, I find it difficult to say that these patterns provide any such hallmarks at all. Even current medical experts who write for lifestyle magazines say that evidence for “bipolar eyes” is inconclusive; Moreover, I cannot find a reputable medical journal that reports on the issue. Finally, in my years working with psychiatrists, none of my doctors checked my eyes when I was experiencing mania or depression.  Hence, I’m inclined to take the position that “bipolar eyes” are a myth while general characteristics can offer some guidance to help you, or your loved ones, identify imbalances. It is by no means a necessary characteristic for someone experiencing mania, depression, and everything in between.  General Eye Characteristics during Depression Bipolar Depression is a complex experience that is unique to each individual who experiences it. While I experienced brain fog, poor memory, migraines, feelings of worthlessness, suicidal ideation, and anxiety, others mention feeling loss of appetite, asexuality, loss of energy, a great void of nothingness. Here is a list of general eye characteristics for someone experiencing a depressive episode: Avoiding Eye ContactDue to the inner pain and turmoil a person feels, one avoids eye contact not to expose the great storm within. Often there are feelings of shame and worthlessness for not being able to uphold life’s responsibilities. Looking DownwardI have often heard people say depression makes everything in the body feel heavy. The body turns downward in the classic sad posture, the imagination narrows, and one feels that looking, even looking, even looking upward is a heavy task. Blank StareOne of the most common features of depression is rumination. The depressed person is often plagued by one or multiple negative thought loops. The person becomes so consumed by this snare that their eyes zone out, not focused on any particular object, and stare for long intervals. Physical Symptoms Due to Poor Sleep Dark circles or shadows under the eyes A hollow or depressed appearance beneath the lower eyelid Visible blood vessels under the eyes A tired or aged appearance Bags or puffiness under the eyes Squinted Eyes General Eye Characteristics during Mania Dilated PupilsThis can happen due to the adrenaline and the subsequent feelings of euphoria that occur in mania. It can also be due to the lack of sleep, substance abuse, and fits of rage and hysteria. Sparkling Eyes, or eyes that appear more liquid than usualThe world becomes a fascinating place during mania. Your senses feel like they are on overdrive and there is a pleasurable tingling all over your brain. With such a feeling, you look at the world and others with a sense of wonder and amazement. It can be fun for the individual but unsettling for others to witness. Eyes that Change Color or Become BlackI had read anecdotal reports of people’s eyes changing colors during manic episodes; however, I could not find a medical journal that mentions this. Some do mention that a manic person’s eyes dilate so much that the entire eye appears to be black. Again, there are many reasons for the eyes to dilate, so it doesn’t necessarily mean a person is manic if their eye color changes or their pupils dilate. Understanding it All You might have noticed that many of these general characteristics of “bipolar eyes,” can be found in other states of health and wellness. Our pupils dilate in the dark in order to let in more light, our eyes can look narrow when we have a migraine, and bags can form under the eyes due to sinus pressure or allergies.  My conclusion again regarding “bipolar eyes,” is that science has not yet made a conclusive connection between eyes and bipolar disorder. The above general characteristics occur with better symptoms of mania such as thoughts of grandeur, hypersexuality, and insomnia. Nonetheless, if you or your loved one shows a patterned change in their eyes during periods of mania or depression, then note it down and discuss with a qualified health professional what it means. However, if the physician does not give it much credence, lean in on your intuition to use it as a clue to help yourself maintain balance.