Mood swings refer to sudden, unexplained shifts in mood that can go from feeling positive and cheerful one minute to feeling overwhelmingly sad, irritated, or anxious the next. We all experience some mild mood changes from time to time. However, when mood shifts significantly interfere with daily life, it may indicate an underlying mental health or medical issue requiring treatment.
What causes mood swings?
Hormonal imbalances often drive mood instability in adults. For example, low or fluctuating levels of serotonin, dopamine, GABA, oxytocin, and other neurotransmitters that regulate emotion can lead to mood swings. Hormonal changes related to puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause may also spark moodiness for some.
Additionally, major stressors, lack of sleep, drug and alcohol abuse, blood sugar fluctuations, thyroid disorders, and some medications can destabilize mood. Trauma, grief, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and bipolar disorder represent other common culprits as well.
Managing mood instability:
Creating a routine, avoiding triggers, exercising, socializing, practicing stress management, and getting enough sleep help stabilize mood for some individuals. For hormonal mood swings, visiting a hormone health specialist for customized bioidentical hormone therapy to balance estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and other hormones can prove extremely effective.
The team of nurses, nutritionists, and physicians at Optimal Hormone Wellness Center specializes in hormonal testing and data-driven, personalized care plans to improve hormone health and emotional wellness for women and men. Those with severe or worsening mood swings may also benefit from counseling and psychiatric treatment.
In summary, mood swings suggest shifting neurochemistry that can significantly disrupt work, relationships, health, and happiness if left unaddressed. Supporting hormone, brain, and body health through lifestyle changes and medical treatment can help regain more consistent mood stability. Reach out today to discover your unique path back to vibrant and resilient mental health!