Why Do Mood Swings Happen, It’s Causes & How To Control Them?

Why do mood swings happen is a question that many seek to answer in order to better manage their emotional health.Mood swings are a common experience that everyone encounters at different points in life. They can range from mild irritability to intense feelings of joy or sadness, often without clear cause or warning. In this blog, we will explore the different factors contributing to mood swings, including biological, psychological, and environmental causes.

Mood Swings- What Are They?

Mood swings refer to sudden, intense changes in emotional state. These fluctuations can happen without warning and may vary in intensity. While some individuals experience mild mood changes throughout the day, others may experience more extreme shifts, such as those associated with bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety. Often, these changes affect how we think, behave, and interact with others, making them important to address.

5 Top Causes of Mood Swings

Why do mood swings happen?To understand this, one should have a closer look at the multiple underlying causes. These can be biological, psychological, or environmental. Let’s break down the main factors that contribute to mood swings:

1. Hormonal Changes and Imbalances

Hormones play a significant role in regulating mood, and any imbalance can lead to mood swings in girls or women​. For example, changes in estrogen and progesterone levels during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause are commonly associated with emotional fluctuations. The hormonal changes during these times are the causes of mood swings in females and can cause intense mood swings, irritability, and feelings of sadness or anger.

Additionally, hormonal imbalances caused by conditions like hypothyroidism or PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) can also contribute to the causes of mood swings in females.

2. Psychological Factors Behind Mood Swings

Mood swings are not just the result of physical changes in the body; mental health plays a crucial role as well. Conditions such as bipolar disorder and depression are often characterized by severe emotional shifts. 

In bipolar disorder, individuals experience extreme mood states that fluctuate between manic and depressive episodes. Athena Behavioral Health specializes in identifying the psychological factors behind mood swings and offering personalized treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward emotional stability.  

People with depression may experience mood swings as part of their overall symptoms, with feelings of hopelessness or sadness suddenly shifting to irritability or anxiety.

3. Sleep Deprivation and Mood Swings

Sleep deprivation is a common cause of mood swings. A lack of quality sleep affects brain function and emotional regulation. When we don’t get enough sleep, our mood is more likely to be volatile, leading to feelings of irritability, anger, or sadness. Over time, sleep deprivation can worsen existing mood disorders, making it harder to cope with stress and maintain emotional stability. Recent research and news reports show that girls' mood swings are a common problem, especially when they are caused by hormonal changes, stress, or mental health issues.

4. Diet and Blood Sugar Levels

What you eat can have a direct impact on your mood. Blood sugar fluctuations caused by irregular eating patterns or a diet high in processed sugars can lead to feelings of irritability and mood swings.Low blood sugar levels can make individuals feel anxious, fatigued, and emotionally unstable, while high blood sugar spikes can lead to periods of extreme energy followed by sudden crashes.

Maintaining a balanced diet and eating at regular intervals can help stabilize mood and reduce the risk of mood swings.

5. Stress and External Life Factors

Stress is a major trigger for mood swings. When individuals face high levels of stress due to work, relationships, or financial issues, their emotional stability can be compromised. Chronic stress increases the production of cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, which can significantly affect mood regulation. Events such as job loss, relationship breakdowns, or trauma can lead to emotional upheaval and cause mood swings. In 2025, reports demonstrated an immense shift in how mood swings in men are recognized and dealt with. Instead of being stoic, people are now more conscious of the significance of mental health and emotional well-being.

Mood Swings & Bipolar Disorder: A Connection You Need To Know

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition known for causing extreme mood swings between manic episodes and depressive episodes. During manic phases, individuals feel euphoric, overly energetic, and may engage in risky behavior. In contrast, depressive episodes involve feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of motivation. These extreme mood shifts, which are characteristic of bipolar disorder, can severely impact daily life. If bipolar disorder is causing mood swings, Athena Behavioral Health is here to help. Talk to our bipolar disorder specialists and take the first step toward emotional balance.

People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional highs and lows that can last for days, weeks, or even longer. This cycle of mood swings is much more pronounced than typical mood fluctuations and requires best bipolar disorder treatment to manage effectively.

Mood Swings in Depression

Mood swings are also a common symptom of depression. Individuals with depressive episodes often experience intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low energy, which can fluctuate throughout the day. Mood swings depression may also include irritability, anger, and frustration, even when there is no obvious cause.

In some cases, people with depression may also experience mixed episodes, where both depressive and manic symptoms occur simultaneously, making it even harder to manage emotions. At Athena Behavioral Health’s, you can find the best doctors for mood swings treatment to help you manage your emotions.

3 Ways to Control Mood Swings

Here we will discuss how to control mood swings with the help of Mood Swings Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause of the fluctuations. Here are some common approaches to treatment:

1. Medication

For those experiencing bipolar disorder or severe depression, medicine for mood swings  may be necessary. Mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotics are often prescribed to help regulate emotions and reduce the frequency of mood swings. It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the right medication and dosage for your needs.

2. Therapy for Mood Swings

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of therapy for mood disorders. It helps individuals identify negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier coping strategies. CBT is often used to treat both depression and bipolar disorder, and it can also be helpful in managing stress-related mood swings.

3. Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes can also play a significant role in reducing mood swings. These may include:

• Maintaining a regular sleep schedule to prevent sleep deprivation
  
  
• Eating a balanced diet to stabilize blood sugar levels
  
  
• Engaging in regular physical activity to reduce stress and improve mood
  
  
• Practicing mindfulness or meditation to enhance emotional regulation
  
  

Conclusion

Mood swings are complex and can occur for many reasons, ranging from hormonal changes to psychological and environmental factors. Understanding the causes of mood swings is essential for managing them effectively. Whether due to bipolar disorder, depression, sleep deprivation, or stress, identifying the root cause allows for the development of an appropriate treatment plan. With the right support, therapy, and lifestyle changes, mood swings can be managed, improving overall well-being and quality of life.