What is mood changes?
Mood changes refer to shifts or fluctuations in a person's emotional state. Our moods are constantly changing in response to events, interactions, and even biochemical processes in the body. Some key things to understand about mood changes include:
- Moods are temporary. They come and go and can change rapidly in response to stress, sleep, diet, hormone cycles, and other factors. Mood changes are usually not permanent states.
- Mood swings are common. Most people experience ups and downs in mood - feeling happy and energetic one moment, and sad or irritable the next. Mild mood swings are a normal part of being human.
- Extreme mood swings may signal a disorder. While normal mood changes are expected, extreme or prolonged mood swings may be a symptom of a mental health condition like bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety. Consulting a doctor is recommended.
- Hormone changes often trigger mood changes. Fluctuations in reproductive hormones like estrogen and testosterone, as well as thyroid hormones, cortisol, and others can destabilize moods. Perimenopause and PMS are linked to mood changes in women.
- Neurochemistry influences mood. Levels of brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine control emotions and moods to an extent. Low levels have been associated with depressed mood.
- Sleep, diet, and stress affect mood. Insufficient sleep, blood sugar fluctuations, nutritional deficits, and high stress levels can all make our moods more volatile and prone to swings. Lifestyle changes may stabilize mood.
- Medication and drugs can alter moods. Various prescription medications, recreational drugs, and even caffeine use can make moods fluctuate more rapidly. Consulting a doctor is important.
Managing mood changes
If you're experiencing frequent, intense mood swings, don't ignore them - see a doctor to explore potential causes and solutions. Making lifestyle changes like getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, reducing stress through yoga and meditation, avoiding drug/alcohol abuse, and taking prescribed medications properly can also help stabilize your mood.
For personalized help getting to the root of your hormonal mood changes, consider making an appointment with our caring team at Balance Hormone Clinic. Our integrative approach combines advanced hormone testing with tailored hormone balancing treatments including bioidentical hormone therapy, supplements, and lifestyle changes for optimal emotional health. Get in touch today to start feeling balanced again!