Mood Changes
Mood changes refer to shifts or fluctuations in a person's emotional state. Our moods can vary greatly day-to-day or even hour-by-hour due to internal and external factors.
What causes mood changes? There are a number of potential triggers:
- Hormones: Hormonal cycles related to menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause can trigger mood swings in some people. Hormones impact neurotransmitters like serotonin that influence our emotions.
- Stress: High stress levels can significantly impact mood. Both acute and chronic stressors can cause irritability, anxiety, sadness, or other mood disturbances.
- Diet: What we eat and drink impacts neurotransmitters and other brain chemicals that regulate mood. Deficiencies in nutrients like omega-3s or B vitamins may undermine mood stability. On the other hand, unhealthy diets high in processed foods and sugars can also trigger crashes.
- Sleep disturbances: Lack of quality sleep prevents the brain from properly regulating emotions. Even temporary sleep deprivation can negatively impact mood.
- Medications: Some prescription drugs, supplements, and recreational substances can provoke adverse mood effects like depression or mania as side effects.
- Health conditions: Thyroid disorders, chronic inflammation, chronic pain, gut issues, and other medical conditions can either cause or exacerbate mood changes. Treating the underlying issue often stabilizes mood.
- Genetics: Research shows our genetics play a partial role in determining baseline mood tendencies and sensitivity. Those with relatives who have sharp mood shifts may be prone as well.
When are mood changes a concern? Frequent or intense mood swings can signify underlying issues like clinical depression or bipolar disorder. Consulting a mental health professional is wise if mood changes:
- Cause significant distress
- Disrupt work, relationships, health
- Last weeks without relief
- Include suicidal thoughts
Seeking help for mood issues that meet these criteria can alleviate suffering and improve one's quality of life. Both talk therapy and medication are common treatments for stabilizing severe mood changes. Lifestyle measures like stress management, exercise, nature exposure, meditation, nutrition adjustments, and sleep hygiene also help many people smooth out less severe mood variability.