What is mood swings?
Mood swings refer to sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can occur over minutes, hours, or days. We all experience fluctuations in mood, but when mood shifts begin interfering with daily life, it may be considered a mood disorder.
What causes mood swings?
Mood swings can occur for various reasons:
- Hormonal changes, especially in women related to menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or menopause
- Medications, including antidepressants, corticosteroids, and illicit drugs
- Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, dementia, or stroke
- Stress, major life events, lack of sleep, poor diet, and not enough exercise
- Bipolar disorder: People with bipolar disorder alternate between periods of mania and depression. Mood swings can be frequent and intense.
What are the signs of mood swings?
Look out for:
- Feeling very happy and energetic then suddenly sad and hopeless
- Having interests and hobbies one day, then losing interest the next
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed
When to see a doctor
Consult your doctor if:
- Mood swings interfere with work, school or relationships
- You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- You use drugs/alcohol to cope with mood swings
- Symptoms match other mental health conditions like depression or bipolar
Tips for coping with mood swings
- Maintain regular sleep, diet, exercise
- Reduce stress through yoga, meditation
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs
- Try mood tracking apps like Daylio
- Seek counseling or join a support group
I hope this overview on mood swings was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.