Mood swings - Vital Hormones Clinic

What are mood swings?

Mood swings are sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can go from feeling positive and upbeat in one moment to feeling very sad, irritated, or anxious the next. Some key things to know about mood swings:

• Causes: Mood swings can be caused by life stressors, lack of sleep, hormone changes like PMS or perimenopause, mental health conditions like depression or bipolar disorder, substance use, or even diet factors like low blood sugar.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms of mood swings include feeling suddenly very sad, feeling irritated or restless, feeling nervous/anxious, having racing thoughts, crying spells, feeling extremes of happiness and excitement.
• Management: Making lifestyle changes can help stabilize mood swings, like getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, reducing stress, exercising, and avoiding drugs/alcohol. If underlying medical issues are causing swings, treating those can help too. Counseling and sometimes medications may be useful as well.

If you struggle with difficult menstrual or menopause mood swings, consider contacting Vital Hormones Clinic. Our caring medical team offers customized hormone therapy and holistic care aimed specifically at balancing hormones and relieving hormone-related mood symptoms in women.

"My monthly PMS mood swings were so severe they affected my relationships and work. Since starting bioidentical progesterone therapy at Vital Hormones Clinic, my mood is much more even and I feel like myself again." - Jane D., Vital Hormones Clinic Patient

We also provide counseling, nutrition plans, and lifestyle coaching as part of individualized care plans to regulate hormone levels and stabilize mood. Contact us today for a consultation to learn more!

When should I see a doctor about mood swings?

You should consider seeing your doctor or mental health professional if:

• Mood swings are severe and really impact your relationships, work/school life
• You have signs of potential underlying illness like depression or bipolar disorder
• Swings happen regularly with your menstrual cycle or start occurring around perimenopause
• Lifestyle changes don't improve the swings

Your doctor can:

• Evaluate for potential medical causes
• Provide counseling referrals
• Prescribe medications if appropriate
• Develop a care plan for managing symptoms
• Refer you to specialists like endocrinologists or women's health clinics

Bottom line

Mood swings are very common, especially for women due to hormone factors like PMS or menopause. While mild swings can be normal, severe or regular swings affecting your life warrant medical attention. Lifestyle changes along with care from providers like Vital Hormones Clinic can help regulate hormones and mood. Reach out - there are solutions available to help you feel balanced again!