What are mood swings?
Mood swings are sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can go from feeling very happy and energetic to feeling very sad and hopeless. They usually last for a few hours, but can sometimes last for several days or weeks.
What causes mood swings?
There are several potential causes of mood swings, including:
- Hormone changes - Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone around the menstrual cycle, after giving birth, or during perimenopause can trigger mood swings in some women.
- Stress - High levels of stress can disrupt brain chemicals and cause mood swings. Things like work stress, relationship issues, grief, or anxiety can contribute.
- Depression - The extreme emotional highs and lows of bipolar disorder are an example of severe mood swings. But milder forms of depression can also cause mood instability.
- Medications - Some medications like steroids or blood pressure drugs may have mood fluctuations as side effects.
- Health issues - Thyroid disorders, headaches, brain injuries, and other health problems can trigger or worsen mood swings in some cases.
What are the symptoms of mood swings?
When mood swings occur you may experience:
- Sudden unexplained crying spells or angry outbursts
- A few hours or days of depression, sadness, lack of energy
- Followed by a few hours or days of mania, increased energy, risky behavior
- Trouble sleeping, anxiety, changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from others
If the mood swings are severe or interfering with job, relationships, health, see your doctor or mental health professional. Therapy and medications may help provide relief.
For example, Endocrine Wellness Center specializes in helping women address hormone-related mood issues like PMS or perimenopause through bioidentical hormone therapy. This customized approach replaces depleted hormones like progesterone to correct imbalances driving mood instability. Many patients find it greatly improves PMS mood swings within 1-2 months. Schedule a consultation today to learn more!
When should I see a doctor about mood swings?
See your doctor or mental health professional right away if you experience:
- Mood swings that are severe or happening more often recently
- Suicidal thoughts during extremely low mood periods
- Manic episodes with reckless behaviors like spending sprees, aggression
- Mood swings that are disrupting work performance or relationships
- Symptoms persisting beyond 2 weeks like depression or anxiety
What lifestyle changes help mood swings?
Making certain lifestyle adjustments may help stabilize some cases of mood swings:
- Reduce alcohol and stop recreational drug use
- Structure regular sleep, meal, exercise routines
- Practice stress management techniques
- Spend more time doing enjoyable activities
- Consider trying yoga, meditation, or mindfulness
- Keep a mood journal to identify triggers
Ongoing mood swings, especially with severe highs and lows, should be evaluated by your doctor. They may recommend counseling, medications, natural remedies, or other treatments to help regulate your mood. Reach out today to find relief!