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 subtle to extreme. Some common causes of mood swings include:
- Stress - High stress levels can trigger changes in mood from anxious to irritable, sad or angry.
- Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep prevents the brain from regulating emotions properly.
- Drug and alcohol abuse - Substances directly influence neurotransmitters and hormones that control mood. Withdrawal can also severely impact mood.
- Medical conditions - Thyroid disorders, dementia, Parkinson's disease and other illnesses can prompt mood changes.
Signs of mood changes range from subtle to severe and may include:
- Feeling stressed, sad, nervous, angry, irritable, anxious or aggressive
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Having low or no energy
- Eating too much or too little
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Having trouble concentrating
- Feeling worthless or guilty
- Thinking about death or suicide