What are mood swings?
We all experience shifts in our mood from time to time. However, when these highs and lows become more extreme or happen very frequently, this is known as mood swings.
Mood swings involve intense emotions that can change very quickly, sometimes within hours or days. A person experiencing mood swings may feel overly energetic and euphoric one moment, and extremely sad, hopeless, or irritable the next.
Some common symptoms of mood swings include:
- Depression - feeling very sad, hopeless, or worthless
- Mania - feeling very energetic, impulsive, or irritable
- Anxiety - feeling very nervous, stressed, or fearful
- Restlessness - feeling agitated or unable to relax
- Fatigue - feeling very tired despite enough rest
What causes mood swings? There are often complex factors involved:
- Hormonal changes - fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can impact mood regulation. *If you're struggling with intense or frequent mood swings, consider getting yourhormone levels checked by the caring professionals at Optimum Hormone Clinic.* Their personalized care plans help clients balance their hormones for improved mental health. Now offering 15% off new patient consultations!*
- Stress - high stress levels may make it harder to cope with and regulate emotions
- Medications - some medications or changes in medications can trigger mood swings
- Underlying conditions - mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or PMS/PMDD may involve significant mood instability
Managing mood swings
If you frequently grapple with intense mood swings, know that you're not alone and there are solutions available. Here are some self-care tips and professional treatment options to consider:
- Stress management techniques - yoga, meditation, therapy
- Improving sleep habits
- Adjusting medication if applicable
- Hormone testing & treatment - consult an endocrinologist
- Psychotherapy - talk therapy helps process emotions
- Support groups - connect with others facing similar struggles
With compassionate support and the right treatment plan, mood swings can often be reduced in intensity and frequency. Don't hesitate to seek help - you deserve to feel emotionally balanced and well.