ARE MY MOOD SWINGS NORMAL?

 

During our normal day we may find that our mood can go from positive to negative in a heartbeat. Some of us find that these mood swings can be hard to handle. Or, we may get feedback from family members that we are irritible or "moody." No one can determine if these mood swings are harmful more than the indiviudal. Frequent mood swings don't always warrant a diagnosis (either physically or emotionally).

Mood swings start to become an issue if there is a negative consequence involved. If your mood swings are just a normal part of your functioning, then making a change may not be needed. However, if your mood swings are interfering in your job, with your relationships, or if they begin to monopolize your day, you may wish to address these changes.

Mood swings can be caused by so many different triggers and inputs. Mood swings can be driven by mental health diagnoses, by hormone levels, by blood sugar, and of course by negative interactions with peers or co-workers. My recommendation as a clinician would be to rule out any physical ailment. Once it is determined that the mood swings are related to mental health, then your therapist can work with you to evaluate the source and of course add a treatment plan.

Mood swings may be unavoidable at times of our lives. But regardless if it is due to a medication or an argument, we can learn to recognize the mood swing and cope with it better each time.