What Causes Mood Swings?

Mood swings are an uncomfortable part of life, and they have been reported to affect as many as 50% of women in the United States. The causes of mood swings are generally hormonal, but these hormone shifts may be caused by several factors.

Hormonal Causes of Mood Swings

Mood swings are characterized by extreme changes in mood, usually from states of euphoria to depression. Someone experiencing a mood swing oftentimes reacts to a trigger but may respond inappropriately and to the frustration of those around them.The following possible causes reflect the strong connection between mood swings and hormonal fluctuations.

Premenstrual Syndrome

More commonly referred to as PMS, this is a stage weeks prior to menstruation. While every woman experiences PMS differently, a large majority report mood swings as one of their premenstrual symptoms.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes a huge transformation on both a physical and hormonal level. The shifts in hormones can cause mood swing episodes.

Menopause

Mood swings are one of the most common symptoms of menopause. While they can be frustrating and confusing for the women experiencing them, they tend to disappear soon after a woman has reached menopause and hormone levels are balanced.

Other Causes of Mood Swings

Moods swings are a common symptom during menopause, but in some cases mood swings episodes may indicate more serious conditions.

Anxiety

Anxiety is defined as a pervasive feeling of worry and can be either short-term or chronic. Anxiety in any form can cause mood swings.

Depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that exhibits a variety of symptoms like intense feelings of sadness and despair accompanied by mood swings. If it is not treated, depression can significantly impact daily life and can be very detrimental to a person's overall well-being.

Mood Swings Triggers

Chronic Stress

Different from every day minor stress, chronic stress occurs when an external factor — long-term financial strains or prolonged illness — inhibits a person's natural ability to maintain biological functions, including regular hormone levels. Chronic stress is a relatively common cause of mood swings.

Lack of Sleep

It is important that people of all ages get the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night. Sleep gives the body a chance to recharge and maintain full functionality. Unfortunately, lack of sleep is widespread and is related to mood swings episodes.

More Information

These are just some of the most common causes of mood swings. Women should discuss all symptoms with a doctor to determine their diagnosis. For more information on mood swings and how to treat them, follow the links below.