Many people experience mood swings, or periods of highs and lows, throughout their lives. Possible causes for mood swings include changes in hormone levels, especially during pregnancy and menopause; mental illness such as bipolar disorder or seasonal affective disorder; and stress or fatigue. Extreme mood swings that interfere with day-to-day activity may require treatment. Speak to a medical professional to determine which course of action is best for your situation.
Prescription Medication
A physician or psychiatrist may prescribe antidepressants to treat depression related to mental illness. Mood stabilizers such as lithium and anticonvulsants like Depakote are used to treat manic phases of bipolar disorder. Mood swings caused by premenstrual syndrome can also be treated with antidepressants, although some women may only need to take it during the last two weeks of their cycle instead of the usual daily dose, explains MayoClinic.com.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Womenshealth.gov explains that women who experienced mood swings before their period or after giving birth are more likely to experience them during menopause because they are more sensitive to hormone changes. Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is not an antidepressant, but it may help alleviate mood swings caused by fluctuating hormone levels. HRT may not be appropriate for women with breast or uterine cancer, a history of stroke or heart attack, or women with liver disease.
Relaxation Techniques
Mood swings, particularly those brought on by stress, may be alleviated by practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, tai chi, creative visualization or even just listening to music or reading a book. MayoClinic.com explains that relaxation helps reduce wear and tear on the body and mind from daily stresses. It can help improve concentration, reduce feelings of anger and boost confidence.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is often a beneficial treatment for mood swings and emotional disorders, as long as you choose the right therapist for your needs, explains Helpguide.org. There are several different types of therapy, and not all work the same for everyone. For long-term mood swings stemming from past events, a psychodynamic approach delves into the base of the problem. Cognitive behavioral therapy looks at the past patterns and helps you change your way of coping with them. Group therapy involves several people with similar emotional problems and a professional moderator.
Herbal Remedies
Current scientific evidence indicates that St. John's wort may alleviate mild to moderate depression, according to Medline Plus. However, it is undetermined if the herb is effective in treating major depression.
A study performed by the department of psychology at the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom found that kava had a mood-elevating effect and increased "cheerfulness" in subjects. The results of this study were published in the June 2004 issue of "Human Psychopharmacology." Speak to a medical professional before taking St. John's wort or kava. Kava has been linked a cases of liver toxicity, and St. John's wort can interact dangerously with other psychiatric medications.
