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 significantly impact their daily life.
Common causes of mood changes include:
- Hormonal changes - Hormone levels naturally fluctuate and can affect mood. Examples include monthly menstrual cycle hormonal changes, postpartum hormone changes after pregnancy, and hormone changes during perimenopause or menopause.
- Stress - High stress levels can alter brain chemistry and cause mood swings. Both acute and chronic stress can impact mood.
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep prevents the brain from properly regulating emotions and can lead to irritability and moodiness.
- Drug and alcohol use - Substances directly influence the chemicals and pathways in the brain that control mood. Both intoxication and withdrawal can drastically impact mood.
- Medical conditions - Thyroid disorders, dementia, Parkinson's disease, and other illnesses can trigger mood changes due to their effects on physiology.
- Mental health conditions - Conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and others directly affect mood regulation.
Signs of problematic mood changes include mood swings that:
- Are sudden, frequent, and intense
- Disrupt work, school, relationships, or daily activities
- Involve depression symptoms like sadness, loss of interest, changes in sleep/appetite
- Involve mania symptoms like euphoria, rage, impulsive behavior
- Are accompanied by other mental health symptoms
If you struggle with intense or frequent mood swings, seek help from a mental health professional. A psychiatrist can evaluate what may be causing your mood instability and determine an appropriate treatment plan which may include therapy, lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and/or psychiatric medication if warranted.
In summary, mood changes refer to shifts in emotions that we all experience. More extreme or disruptive mood swings can signal underlying medical, mental health, or lifestyle issues that require professional care. Support is available through counseling, medication options, self-care strategies, and in some cases, hormone balancing therapies. Being attentive to changes in your moods and taking proactive steps to regulate difficult emotions can help you maintain an improved sense of well-being.