Mood swings are sudden, unexpected shifts in mood that can go from feeling positive and upbeat in one moment to feeling sad, irritable, or angry in the next. Some key things to know about mood swings:
How long do mood swings last? - For most people, mood swings are temporary and may last for a few hours up to a few days when triggered by stress or other factors. - In some cases like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) or bipolar disorder, more extreme mood swings can last for longer periods of time from a week to months unless effectively treated.
Can you have mood swings without a disorder? - Yes, it's completely normal for most people to experience occasional mood swings in response to stressful life events, hormone changes, lack of sleep, etc. - Frequent extreme mood swings that impact work, relationships and quality of life could indicate an underlying mental health or hormonal imbalance that should be evaluated.
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