Moods typically fluctuate throughout the day, but frequent mood swings can have a negative impact on your well-being and may be a sign of underlying issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to control your mood swings.

What Are Mood Swings?

Mood swings are rapid changes in mood. They are caused by a combination of external and internal factors, such as your hormones, brain chemicals, stress, medication, nutrition, mental health conditions, and more.

How to Control Mood Swings

Properly managing your mood swings can improve your mental health and overall well-being. Lifestyle changes and help from professionals can help you reduce stress, address underlying physical or mental conditions, and control your mood swings.

1. Build Healthy Habits

Create a healthier lifestyle for yourself to help manage mood swings. Even small changes can have a big impact over time. Find time to exercise, even if it’s only a few minutes a day. Exercise not only improves your physical health, but it can also help reduce anxiety, improve your mood, and boost your energy. Physical activity does not have to be strenuous to be beneficial. Food also has a big impact on your mood and energy levels, so make sure your diet includes healthy meals and snacks and not too much junk food. Getting enough sleep at night helps you feel well-rested the next day so you have the energy to be productive and better handle any challenges that may occur. Adults should aim for around eight hours of sleep per night. Tracking your mood throughout the day can also help you understand it better and see how it relates to different activities.

2. Find Ways to Relax

Make time for a calming activity that helps you take your mind off the day’s challenges and encourages relaxation. This will look different for everyone, but may include activities like yoga, meditation, reading, going for a walk, or spending time with friends and family. Practice being present in the moment. Clearing the clutter out of your home can also help you create a clean, calming environment that helps reduce stress. Find healthy activities that you enjoy that don’t rely on alcohol or mood-altering substances to help you relax.

3. Talk to a Professional

If you find it difficult to manage your mood swings, talk to a professional for their advice. Your doctor can discuss your mood swings with you and offer potential solutions as well as rule out physical health issues that may be occurring. A therapist can help you work through struggles in your life that may be contributing to your mood swings as well as help you process your emotions and find healthy coping strategies.

If you find yourself in a mental health or behavioral health crisis, going to a Connections Health Solutions facility can give you access to professional help and other resources to assist you on your journey to a healthier you. Visit our locations page to find a center near you.