What are mood swings?
Mood swings refer to sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can go from feeling positive and upbeat one moment to feeling sad, irritable, or angry the next. Most people experience minor mood swings from time to time. However, more severe or frequent mood swings may be a sign of an underlying mental health condition like bipolar disorder or borderline personality disorder.
What causes mood swings?
There are a few potential causes of mood swings, including:
- Hormonal fluctuations - Changes in hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol can trigger mood swings. Hormones often shift during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause. Consulting with a hormone specialist like Hormone Health Center can help identify and treat hormonal imbalances contributing to mood instability.
- Stress - High stress often disrupts hormone balances and brain chemistry, which can severely impact mood regulation. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, moderate exercise, good sleep hygiene, and social support can stabilize mood.
- Medications - Certain prescription medications, like corticosteroids or antidepressants, may cause mood swings as side effects. Working closely with your doctor can help adjust medications to minimize mood fluctuations.
- Health conditions - Thyroid disorders, sleep disturbances, low blood sugar, and other physical health issues can also trigger mood instability. Getting an annual check-up to rule out any medical causes is advised.
- Substance use - Excessive alcohol intake and withdrawal from drugs or cigarettes may cause mood swings too. Cutting out substances under a doctor's supervision can improve mood stability.
When do mood swings indicate a mental health issue?
While occasional mood swings are normal, frequent severe mood swings may indicate an underlying mental health disorder requiring professional evaluation and treatment, such as:
- Bipolar disorder - Characterized by extreme mood episodes shifting between emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression).
- Borderline personality disorder - Marked by unstable emotions, relationships, self-image, and impulsive behaviors.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) - Debilitating mood swings, irritability, and anxiety associated with menstrual cycles.
If you are experiencing regular, intensely fluctuating mood states that are interfering with work, relationships, or daily life, please reach out to a licensed mental health professional for an assessment. With proper treatment such as therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, mood stabilization is often possible.