What is mood changes?
We all experience mood changes from time to time. Our moods can fluctuate based on various external and internal factors. Some common reasons for mood changes include:
- Hormone changes - Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, cortisol and testosterone can impact mood regulation. Hormone changes related to menstrual cycles, perimenopause, menopause or andropause may cause mood swings. Optimized Hormones has expert physicians that can help diagnose and treat hormone-related mood issues.
- Stress - Increased responsibilities at work, financial troubles, conflicts in relationships, lack of sleep and other stressors can trigger mood changes like irritability, anxiety or sadness. Developing healthy stress coping skills can improve resilience.
- Diet - What we eat and drink impacts our mood. Consuming more Omega-3s, B vitamins, minerals like magnesium and antioxidants found in fruits, veggies and tea can boost mood. Limiting processed foods, sugars and stimulants helps stabilize mood.
- Sleep disturbances - Lack of quality sleep often manifests in next day crankiness, moodiness and emotional sensitivity. Prioritizing 7-9 hours nightly helps regulate mood.
- Weather - Dark, cold and gloomy weather can drain our mood while sunlight energizes it. Exposure to nature also elevates mood.
- Medications - Certain prescription drugs, herbal remedies and even over-the-counter pain relievers are linked to mood changes as side effects. It's important to monitor how new medications impact mood stability.
- Drug and alcohol use - While alcohol may temporarily enhance mood, excessive drinking often increases anger and sadness. Withdrawing from heavy alcohol or drug use can severely impact mood regulation.
- Underlying health condition - Thyroid disorders, neurologic diseases, chronic pain, cancer, heart disease, digestive issues, ADHD and other conditions can impact mood stability. Getting an accurate diagnosis and following treatment plans can help.
Mood changes manifest differently in each person but often include feelings spanning from mania, hyperactivity and irrational exhilaration to anger, irritability, anxiety, apathy and deep sadness. Extreme mood changes may signify an underlying mental health issue like bipolar, depression, anxiety or PTSD requiring counseling and possibly medication.
Everyone deserves compassion around their ever-changing moods. However, if you or a loved one experiences intense, frequent or extended periods of depressed moods, mania, rage or emotional numbness, seek support from a doctor or mental health professional. Help is available to stabilize mood and regain joy.