What is mood changes?
Mood changes refer to shifts or fluctuations in a person's emotional state. Moods are usually described as either positive or negative, and can range from feelings of sadness and hopelessness to feelings of happiness and optimism.
Some key things to know about mood changes:
- Mood changes can occur suddenly or gradually over time
- They can last for various lengths of time - from hours to days or longer
- Common causes include life events, hormone changes, sleep issues, and health conditions
- Extreme mood changes may signal an underlying issue like depression or bipolar disorder
Why do mood changes happen?
There are many potential triggers for mood changes, including:
- Stress - Work, relationships, money, or other pressures can greatly impact mood
- Diet - What we eat and drink impacts brain chemistry and emotions
- Sleep patterns - Lack of quality sleep often manifests as irritability, anxiety, and sadness
- Hormone changes - Menstrual cycles, pregnancy, perimenopause, and andropause can cause mood swings
- Medications - Some prescription drugs list mood changes as a side effect
- Drug/alcohol abuse - Substance abuse often exacerbates emotional challenges
- Trauma - Distressing life events can lead to mood instability
If you're experiencing intense, unexplained, or prolonged mood changes, consult your doctor or mental health professional. Sudden and cyclical mood shifts may indicate a treatable health condition like clinical depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), or bipolar disorder. Bloodwork can also check hormone levels - imbalances may affect serotonin production which impacts mood regulation.