Mood swings occur in both men and women. They can range from mild to severe and either way, they can be hard to deal with. That goes for the people who have them and the people around them. When it comes to preventing them from happening, it takes a lot of emotional and mental control. When you are able to control your mood swings, you will be able to function better at home, work and in life in general.
Step 1
Distract yourself. Right when you are about to have a mood swing, stop what you are doing, take a deep breath and walk away. Do something to take your mind off of what is making you unhappy. Do a crossword puzzle, listen to music or watch a comedy show on television.
Step 2
Go for a walk. Exercise can help keep your weight under control, it can improve range of motion and it can also improve circulation. One other thing it can do is release endorphins and elevate your mood. It doesn't have to be anything complicated. Go for a 20 minute walk or bike ride when you feel a mood swing coming on. This can also help keep your mind occupied.
Step 3
Get enough sleep. Sleep is very important for muscle repair and overall cell recovery. If you do not get adequate amounts, you can also have compromised brain function and be more prone to mood swings. According to the Centers for Disease Control, adults should get 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.
Step 4
Avoid excessive amounts of stimulants. Stimulants can give you a burst of energy, but they can also make you restless and nervous which can increase your chances of suffering a mood swing. Avoid high amounts of coffee, tea, soft drinks and energy drinks.
Step 5
Eat foods that can improve your mood. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that regulates moods. If you feel yourself about to have a mood swing, eat some foods that help promote the release of serotonin. Examples of these include turkey, chicken, whole grains, avocados and bananas.
