Mood swings is a frequent and abrupt shift between emotional highs and lows. A person experiencing mood swings may face challenges with emotional regulation and stability. This unpredictability in one’s emotional state can negatively impact relationships and daily functioning.
An early diagnosis and evaluation from a mental health professional helps better if mood swings are persistent and disruptive. A doctor will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the pattern and severity of mood fluctuations.
At Buddhi Clinic, the treatment usually involves psychotherapy and lifestyle management techniques to cope with stress and stabilize moods. Medications may also be prescribed in severe cases to balance neurotransmitter levels and reduce emotional volatility. The goal is to make moods less extreme and help the person gain better control over their emotions.
Fluctuations in levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone during the menstrual cycle can dysregulate neurotransmitter systems involved in mood. Imbalances in hormones produced by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis are also implicated in mood instability.
Diseases that impact thyroid or neurological function directly alter brain chemistry and signaling pathways regulating affect. Chronic illnesses induce chronic stress and inflammatory responses that secondarily influence neurotransmitter pathways.
Genetic polymorphisms affecting serotonin, dopamine and other neurotransmitter systems confer risk for mood disorders through inherited traits. Epigenetic modifications to gene expression from environmental stressors can also be passed down intergenerationally.
Acute life stressors activate the body’s stress response systems like HPA axis dysregulation and inflammation that indirectly impact mood over time. Chronic stress exposure leads to allostatic load that structurally and functionally impacts limbic brain regions involved in emotion processing.
Recreational drugs affect neurotransmitter and neuroendocrine pathways through direct receptor agonism/antagonism. Prescription medications can also indirectly influence mood through off-target receptor effects or drug-drug interactions that disrupt neuroregulatory systems.
Mood swings symptoms can vary in frequency and intensity. Common signs and symptoms include:
Moods may fluctuate between feeling happy, sad, angry or irritable with little or no provocation over short periods of time ranging from hours to days.
Individuals may experience sudden and extreme changes in emotion that others notice as inappropriate or disproportionate to the situation.
Energy levels and activity levels fluctuate in tandem with changing moods. Low energy during depressed moods and high energy during elevated moods.
Ability to concentrate and focus varies with changing moods. Poor concentration during low or depressed moods and racing thoughts during elevated moods.
Sleep patterns are disrupted. Insomnia during elevated moods and hypersomnia during depressed moods are common.
Behavior and level of impulsivity changes with shifting mood states. Impulsive behaviors sometimes occur during elevated moods.
A proper diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history and ruling out other potential causes.
The healthcare professional will conduct a physical exam and ask detailed questions about the nature of mood changes. They inquire about the duration and frequency of mood swings, what triggers them and how severe the symptoms are. A mood chart where the patient tracks their moods over weeks can provide useful insights.
The doctor explores the individual’s psychiatric, medical and family history to understand any predisposing factors or previous diagnoses. Conditions like thyroid issues or drug and alcohol use need to be considered.
Tests may be recommended to rule out medical conditions influencing mood. This includes blood tests, scans or a referral to other specialists. Underlying generalized medical illnesses or neurological disorders should be excluded as potential causes.
Only after a systematic process of evaluation, history and testing to exclude other causes can a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, cyclothymic disorder or another condition involving mood swings be made confidently. A clear understanding of the diagnosis helps determine the best treatment plan.
Mood swings can impact an individual from various aspects if left untreated.
Uncontrolled mood fluctuations may negatively influence interpersonal relationships and daily activities. Sudden shifts in emotions and behavior can strain social interactions and responsibilities.
Frequent or intense mood swings may interfere with work performance and responsibilities. It could lead to issues like decreased productivity, poor decision making and conflicts with colleagues.
After diagnosis, treatment at the Buddhi Clinic focuses on stabilizing neurotransmitter imbalances through pharmacotherapy. Common medications prescribed include:
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) which increase serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These are usually first-line treatment options.
Mood stabilizing anticonvulsants such as lithium, valproate, and lamotrigine which regulate neurotransmitter activity to stabilize moods.
After medication, psychotherapy can help develop coping skills for mood regulation. Effective options include:
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which teaches patients to challenge negative thought patterns linked to mood changes.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) which focuses on mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation.
Monitoring
Close monitoring during treatment is critical. Providers must regularly assess:
Medication effectiveness in stabilizing moods and reducing the frequency/intensity of swings.
Any side effects from pharmacotherapy and make adjustments as needed.
The best outcomes are achieved using a combination approach with both medication management and psychotherapy.
At Buddhi Clinic, we specialize in managing mood swings with a multidisciplinary approach, combining advanced diagnostics, personalized therapies, and holistic care. Our expert team addresses the emotional and psychological complexities of mood disorders, offering tailored treatments to restore stability and enhance well-being. Experience innovative, evidence-based care designed to improve mental health and overall quality of life.
At Buddhi Clinic, we are committed to providing individuals and their families with the resources and support they need to navigate and manage mood swings effectively.
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