
Women going through menopause can frequently experience mood swings. Research shows that women who suffered from intense mood swings during PMS are more likely to suffer from mood swings during menopause.
Reasons to Control Mood Swings
Trying to control mood swings is a natural response to the difficulties caused by the abrupt changes in mood, temperament, and attitude that mood swings bring about. The suddenness of these changes can be bewildering, confusing, and sometimes emotionally damaging.
Attempts to control mood swings are often based on a desire to prevent any impediments to relationships, work, and overall personal well-being. Women experiencing severe mood swings often feel like they are not in control of who they are and that their personality has changed. This can be a scary thing to confront, but there are ways to control and to reduce mood swings.
How to Control Mood Swings
Some lifestyle changes recommended to control mood swings include:

- Drinking plenty of water
- Getting enough sleep (i,e.,at least seven hours per night)
- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
- Exercising regularly
- Practicing stress reduction techniques (e,g., meditation and yoga)
Many women also join menopausal support groups to share stories and stresses with peers who understand what they're going through. Those who do not have such a group in their area can find forums and communities online.
One of the most effective treatments for mood swings is hormone replacement therapy (HRT). HRT adds the hormone estrogen to the body, which declines during menopause and causes most of the symptoms of menopause. HRT can also treat hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness along with mood swings, but it comes with its own set of risks.
Further Advice
If your mood swings are changing the quality of your life, or you think you may be suffering from a mental health condition, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Click on the following link for further information on different mood swing treatments.
Sources
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2014). Meditation: A simple, fast way to reduce stress. Retrieved November 30, 2015, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/meditation/in-depth/meditation/art-20045858
- National Health Service UK. (2014). Struggling with Stress? Retrieved November 30, 2015, from http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/Pages/understanding-stress.aspx
- Public Broadcasting Service. (2011). Meditation. Retrieved November 30, 2015, from http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topic/meditation/meditation