I'm a worrier, too. And really, worry does drive a lot of obsessive thoughts.

My mom had cancer when I was growing up and I was told pretty much my whole childhood that I needed to be prepared for her to die and that she was sick. So, I think being worried is kind of ingraned in me, too.

My coping skills with worry go something like this:

-Will this problem still affect me or still be valid in six months?
If no, then try to let it go. Do deep breathing. Focus attention on something else.

-If yes, is there anything in my control that I can do about it?
If no, then try to let it go and what will be will be.
If yes, then focus on steps I can take to solve the problem vs. sit still worrying.

It's not easy. I am horrible, horrible at getting lost in obsessive worry. I won't say I'm not. This is one of my main troubles, really.

Do I think worry causes bipolar? No. Do I think it triggers cycles and episodes? Yes. It's going to take a lot of work and coping skills. But, don't give up. I believe it can be done and I get a little better at it as I go.