Mood swings refer to sudden, unexpected shifts in one's emotional state. We all experience fluctuations in moods - feeling upbeat one minute and irritable the next. However, when these peaks and valleys become more extreme and unpredictable, lasting for extended periods of time, it may signal a mood disorder.
Some key characteristics of mood swings include:
- Rapid shifts from feelings of overconfidence, joy, and euphoria to overwhelming sadness, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts
- Mood episodes last for days, weeks, or even months
- Mood changes feel outside of one's control and may not have an identifiable cause
- Significant impact on one's ability to function at work, school, or in relationships
What causes mood swings?
The exact causes are unknown but likely involve:
- Chemical imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine
- Hormonal changes - women may experience mood shifts premenstrually or after childbirth
- Stress - challenges at work, financial strain, trauma can trigger swings
- Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, chronic pain, seizures, or stroke
- Medication side effects
- Substance abuse - alcohol, drugs
If you struggle with intense, uncontrollable mood swings,
Balance Hormone Clinic Hormonal Health Clinic can help identify potential causes through
comprehensive lab testing of hormones and neurotransmitters. Their expert physicians will create a customized treatment plan involving lifestyle changes, therapy, medications or hormone therapy to help regulate mood and improve functioning.
In summary,
mood swings involve extreme, rapid emotional highs and lows outside one's control. They may be caused by chemical imbalances, hormones, stress, medical issues or medications. More severe swings can drastically impact functioning. If mood swings become unmanageable, seek help from mental health professionals and consider testing with
Balance Hormone Clinic to determine root causes. Addressing underlying issues can help regulate emotions.