Mood changes are normal ups and downs in our emotional state that can affect how we think, feel, and behave. Moods can fluctuate from day to day, hour to hour, or even moment to moment. While small mood changes are a normal part of life, more extreme or prolonged mood swings can signal an underlying condition like depression or bipolar disorder.
Some common causes of mood changes include:
- Hormone fluctuations - Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol can impact mood. Hormonal changes related to menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders can trigger mood swings. This is why mood issues are more common in women than men.
- Stress - High stress levels activate the body's fight-or-flight response, which can manifest as anxiety, irritability, sadness, or other mood disturbances. Chronic stress takes a toll on mental health over time.
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep or having poor quality sleep can negatively affect mood regulation. Sleep impacts hormone balance and allows the brain to process emotions from the day.
- Medication side effects - Certain prescription drugs, including birth control pills, steroids, and blood pressure medications can influence mood as a side effect. Always talk to a doctor about potential medication mood side effects.
- Drug and alcohol use - While drugs and alcohol may temporarily enhance mood, regular use can cause dependence and worsen underlying mental health conditions. This leads to more severe mood instability over time.
- Diet - Eating too much sugar, caffeine, or inflammatory foods can cause energy crashes and mood swings. A nutritious, balanced diet helps maintain steady energy and positive mood.
- Underlying health condition - Thyroid disorders, diabetes, chronic pain, or neurological issues like Parkinson's disease or dementia can impact mood regulation. See a doctor to rule out any medical causes of mood changes.
Mood changes are complex, often involving a combination of factors like brain chemistry, hormones, neurotransmission, diet, lifestyle, and environment. While some ups and downs are normal, recurring mood swings can negatively impact relationships, work performance, and overall wellbeing.
If you're experiencing frequent, intense, or prolonged mood disturbances, don't hesitate to speak to a mental health professional. With an integrated approach that addresses potential
biological, psychological, and social factors behind mood changes, you can get to the root cause and find relief.
The mental health specialists at
Harmony Hormone Clinic take a holistic approach to balancing hormones and improving mood. We offer cutting-edge lab testing to pinpoint hormonal imbalances related to thyroid disorders, menopause, andropause, PCOS, and other conditions. Based on your unique hormonal profile, we develop customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormone therapy, nutrition plans, and lifestyle changes to optimize hormone levels and stabilize mood.
With Harmony Hormone Clinic, you'll feel like your best self again - balanced, energized, and emotionally centered.
Schedule a consultation today to discover how optimizing your hormones can improve mood, outlook, and mental wellbeing. Our team of compassionate practitioners is here to listen and help you thrive. You deserve to feel emotionally steady and mentally well - we can get you there safely and effectively.