Mood Swings
Mood swings refer to rapid and extreme fluctuations in a person’s emotional state. These changes can happen quickly and are often unpredictable, ranging from feelings of happiness and euphoria to sadness, irritability, or anger.
“Mood Swings” as a Sign and Symptom of Mental Illness
As a sign and symptom of mental illness, mood swings are characterized by:
- Rapid Shifts: Sudden changes in emotional state without a clear trigger.
- Intensity: Emotional changes that are more extreme than typical mood variations.
- Duration: Swings that can last from minutes to hours, and sometimes days.
- Impact on Functioning: These swings can interfere with daily activities, relationships, and overall well-being.
Mental Illnesses Where Mood Swings Are Symptoms
- Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by episodes of mania (high energy, euphoria) and depression (low energy, sadness). Mood swings in bipolar disorder can be severe and disrupt daily functioning.
- Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Involves intense and unstable emotions and relationships. Individuals with BPD often experience rapid mood swings in response to interpersonal stressors.
- Cyclothymic Disorder: A milder form of bipolar disorder, marked by chronic, fluctuating mood disturbances involving periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are less severe than those in bipolar disorder.
- Major Depressive Disorder with Mixed Features: Involves depressive episodes with symptoms of mania or hypomania, leading to significant mood fluctuations.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Severe mood swings, irritability, and depression occur in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Individuals with ADHD can experience mood swings due to difficulties in regulating emotions, although these are not a core symptom of ADHD.
- Schizoaffective Disorder: Combines symptoms of schizophrenia (such as hallucinations or delusions) with mood disorder symptoms like mania or depression, leading to mood instability.
Understanding mood swings in the context of these mental illnesses is essential for diagnosis and treatment. Effective treatment may involve therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes to help manage and stabilize mood swings, improving the individual’s overall quality of life.
At MANOURJA, we believe in the transformative power of counseling. Our experienced therapists offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and challenges. Through personalized counselling sessions, we’ll work together to develop coping strategies, build resilience, and achieve lasting positive change. Discover the path to a healthier, happier you with MANOURJA counselling services.
MANOURJA Rehabilitation Services
At MANOURJA, we’re dedicated to helping you in rebuild your life, after difficult times. Our rehabilitation services focus on understanding what you need to move forward, whether you’re recovering from addiction, trauma, or any psychological – social challenges. We create personalized plans, that are all about helping you, regain your strength and find hope again. With a caring team by your side, you’ll have the support to make real progress and take steps toward a brighter, healthier future.