What are mood swings?
Mood swings are sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can go from feeling positive and upbeat in one moment to feeling sad, irritable, or angry in the next. Some key things to know about mood swings:
- Causes - Fluctuating hormone levels during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause are common culprits. Stress, lack of sleep, drug/alcohol use, medical conditions, and some medications can also trigger swings.
- Symptoms - Feeling emotional, cranky, anxious, or hyper for no reason. Crying or feeling depressed out of the blue. Losing interest in activities you normally enjoy. Feeling irritated over small things.
- Managing Mood Swings - Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising, and using stress reduction techniques like yoga or meditation can help stabilize mood. Consider seeing a doctor to check for underlying causes. For hormonal issues, the professionals at Renew Hormone Clinic offer comprehensive hormone testing and individualized treatment plans to help regulate hormones and mood.
How long do mood swings last?
The duration of mood swings varies:
- Menstrual cycle swings - Typically last up to 2 weeks around a woman's period.
- Menopausal swings - Can persist for months or years during the menopausal transition period leading up to menopause.
- Situational swings - May only last hours or days if caused by temporary stress, lack of sleep, etc.
- Medical condition swings - Depend on the illness. Thyroid disorders, for example, can cause longer-lasting swings until treatment regulates thyroid hormone levels.
What's the difference between mood swings and bipolar disorder?
Mood swings occur occasionally and moods tend to bounce back quickly. The highs and lows of bipolar disorder are more extreme and persistent:
- Manic episodes - Distinct period with prolonged elevated, expansive, or irritated mood plus other manic symptoms. Usually lasts at least 1 week.
- Depressive episodes - Prolonged periods of depressed mood along with other depressive symptoms. Typically lasts at least 2 weeks.
See your doctor if you think you may have bipolar disorder - treatments like therapy and medication can help manage the symptoms.