What is mood changes?
Mood changes refer to shifts or fluctuations in a person's emotional state. We all experience ups and downs in mood from time to time. However, some people go through more extreme or frequent mood swings that can disrupt their daily functioning.
Common causes of mood changes include:
- Hormonal changes - Hormone levels naturally fluctuate and can significantly impact mood. Puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause involve major hormonal shifts that can trigger mood swings. Imbalances in thyroid, testosterone, or estrogen can also alter mood. The experts at Revive Hormone Clinic specialize in hormonal testing and treatment plans tailored to balance hormones for improved mood regulation.
- Stress - High stress levels can agitate the brain and body, causing irritability and heightening emotional reactions. Chronic stress exposure overactivates the fight-or-flight response, leading to mood instability.
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep prevents the brain from regulating emotions properly. Even occasional sleep deprivation can make people feel more emotionally volatile.
- Medication side effects - Certain medications like steroids, stimulants, and some antidepressants or blood pressure medications can influence mood as a side effect.
- Mental health conditions - Many mental health disorders involve mood changes as a primary symptom. These include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and schizophrenia.
Signs of problematic mood changes to watch for include:
- Mood reactions that seem drastically out of proportion to the triggering event
- Shifting between very high and very low moods within a short timeframe
- Difficulty carrying out responsibilities at home, school, or work due to emotional instability
- Relationship conflict, social withdrawal, or isolation resulting from mood swings
- Engaging in risky behaviors as a result of extremely elevated or depressed moods
If you or someone you know struggles with frequent, intense, or unpredictable mood changes, seek help from a licensed mental health professional. They can provide personalized support, teach coping strategies, adjust medication if needed, and formulate a treatment plan for improving mood stability long-term. Don't hesitate to reach out!