What are mood swings?
Mood swings refer to sudden, unexpected shifts in emotion that can go from feeling positive and upbeat one moment to feeling irritated, sad, or angry the next. Most people experience some mild mood swings from time to time. However, more severe or frequent mood swings may be a sign of an underlying condition like depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder.
What causes mood swings?
There are many potential causes of mood swings, including:
- Hormonal changes - Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol can trigger mood swings. Hormones changes related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause may all cause temporary mood instability.
- Stress - High stress levels can take a toll on our emotions. Too much stress can make us feel irritable, anxious, or down.
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep prevents the brain from regulating emotions properly and can lead to increased moodiness.
- Blood sugar changes - When blood sugar gets too low (hypoglycemia) it can cause lightheadedness, anxiety, irritability and confusion.
- Medical conditions - Thyroid disorders, addiction, dementia, and mental health conditions like depression or bipolar disorder can all contribute to severe mood instability.
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How are mood swings treated?
If lifestyle changes like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, reducing stress and sticking to a consistent daily routine do not improve mild mood swings, it may be time to talk to your doctor. They can check for underlying health issues and provide medications or therapies targeted treatment options like:
- Therapy - Talk therapy helps people address psychological issues contributing to mood instability. Cognitive behavioral therapy aims to change negative thought patterns.
- Medications - Antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers may be prescribed for bipolar or other mood disorders. Occasionally anti-anxiety medication is used short-term.
- Alternative medicine - Options like biofeedback, meditation, acupuncture, and nutritional supplements may complement conventional treatment. Research shows magnesium, omega-3s, vitamin D, and B vitamins support and stabilize mood.
Regular mood fluctuations are normal. However, pervasive, unpredictable, or extreme mood swings can deeply impact quality of life. Speaking to a doctor is the first step to uncover any medical conditions and find appropriate therapies or lifestyle changes to regulate difficult mood instability.