Mood swings

Mood swings mean that emotions vary more than usual or change more quickly in everyday life. Everyone's mood can fluctuate, for example because of stress, fatigue or life changes. In that case, mood changes are usually a natural part of life and temporary. The symptom may appear, for example, as happiness turning into low mood or irritability appearing without a clear reason.

Sometimes mood swings can be strong or long-lasting. In that case, they may be related to stress, sleep problems, hormonal changes or long-term illnesses such as fibromyalgia. Bipolar disorder also involves clear periods in which mood changes strongly from depression to a particular kind of energy (mania). In Finland, the most common causes of mood swings are stress, insomnia, life crises and mental health disorders.

Mood swings are concerning if they interfere with everyday life, relationships or work ability, or if they are associated with long-term anxiety, depression or reduced functioning. A strong and sudden change in mood without a clear reason is also worth discussing with a healthcare professional. A professional can help identify the causes and find suitable support or treatment.