Mood changes - Rejuvenate Wellness

What Are Mood Changes?

Mood changes are common and normal. Our moods tend to fluctuate day to day or even hour to hour. Some factors that can affect our moods include:

• Stress - Work, family, or other stressors can put us in a bad mood. Taking time for self-care and managing stress can help.
• Lack of sleep - Not getting enough sleep makes most people feel irritable or down. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
• Diet - Eating too much sugar or junk food or not eating enough can impact mood. Focus on a balanced, nutritious diet.
• Hormones - Hormonal changes related to menstrual cycles, menopause, or other factors can affect moods, especially in women. Rejuvenate Wellness offers customized bioidentical hormone therapy to help balance hormones and mood.
• Medications - Some prescription medications can cause mood changes. Speak to your doctor if you think a medication is impacting your mood.
• Alcohol/drugs - Substance use can contribute to mood swings and changes. Seek help if substance use is affecting your life.
• Health conditions - Medical conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, or neurological issues can influence mood. Have any new or concerning symptoms evaluated.

Mood changes can vary in severity and duration:

Severity	Description
Mild	Mild fluctuations in mood are normal with daily stressors. Taking time to relax can help stabilize your mood.
Moderate	Occasional bad moods after a specific stressful event are also normal and tend to be temporary.
Severe	If you have prolonged, dramatic shifts in mood, especially coupled with behavior changes, it could signify a psychiatric issue that should be assessed by a doctor.

Common symptoms of a potential mood disorder include:

• Depressed mood most of the day
• Markedly diminished interest in activities
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Diminished ability to think or concentrate
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing five or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, see your doctor or mental health professional right away. Rejuvenate Wellness's psychiatrists can provide caring, confidential mental health assessments and treatment plans to help improve your mood.

With mild and temporary mood changes, some self-care strategies include:

Strategy	Description
Exercise	Get regular exercise to naturally boost your mood
Outdoors	Spend time outdoors and get some sun exposure
Hobbies	Engage in hobbies and activities you enjoy
Relaxation	Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation
Social Support	Maintain social connections and support systems
Natural Remedies	Consider trying natural remedies which some find helps stabilize mood
Journaling	Keep a journal and reflect on patterns surrounding your mood

In summary, mood changes are a normal part of life but can sometimes signify an underlying issue. Pay attention to prolonged changes in mood or associated symptoms, and seek support if needed. With some lifestyle adjustments and self-care, you can help maintain a more stable, positive mood. Rejuvenate Wellness is also here to help you get to the root of hormone-related mood changes so you can feel your best. If mood changes are significantly impacting your quality of life, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help. With the right support and treatment plan, it is possible to manage mood changes effectively and improve overall well-being.