Irritability is an emotional state when you feel easily upset or annoyed, and you might react more angrily than usual to little problems. It’s a common emotional reaction and can be caused by various factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, hunger, or hormonal changes. Irritability can also be brought on by some medications and medical health conditions like anxiety or depression. When you’re irritable, you will feel more negative and impatient, which can affect your relationships with others and your performance at work or school. You might also face physical symptoms like a faster heartbeat or stress. You might often ask yourself why am I always angry and irritated for no reason. Let’s discuss it in detail.
Even while it can seem like you have no apparent reason for being angry or irritated, there probably is. There are many causes a person can get angry which may include either physical or mental factors, but sometimes there is no clear cause. You may be left questioning yourself why you constantly feel this way and why you are uncomfortable all the time. In this article, we will discuss common causes of irritability or mood swings.
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Stress Overload
Our mental and physical health can significantly face negative impacts if we overstress ourselves. Overstress can lead to intense mental health issues such as irritability or depression. Along with other emotional disturbances, it can also contribute to feelings of helplessness, decreased motivation, and emotional exhaustion. Stress can also activate a variety of physical health issues which may include high blood pressure, hypertension, stroke, heart attack, etc. It also triggers the immune system, making our body more vulnerable to diseases and infections. Moreover, it can also lead to gastrointestinal problems like stomach ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome.
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Poor Sleep
Research has found that people who are experiencing poor quality sleep report increases in negative moods such as irritability, frustration, sadness, anger, etc. Not getting enough sleep is one of the main reasons people ask themselves: why am I so irritable? Our physical, mental, and emotional health greatly relies on better sleep. Poor sleep can trigger negative vibrations and decrease positive vibrations. As a result, one can lack feelings of happiness or joy. Sleep deprivation can also affect our cognitive functions making it difficult for individuals to focus and process information.
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Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalance can be quite irritating for many people because it can lead to various signs and symptoms that can be physically, mentally, and emotionally distressing. Hormones have direct contact with our mood, metabolism, and overall well-being so it is necessary to keep everything in balance otherwise one can face immense mood fluctuations and irritability. This irritability causes various physical symptoms which may include weight loss or gain, insomnia, fatigue, lack of sleep, changes in appetite, etc. These signs can be exhausting and trigger feelings of anger or irritability.
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Dietary Factors
Diet is one of the main factors that can greatly influence your feelings of irritability in different ways. If you consume a lot of high-sugar foods it will cause rapid drops in your blood sugar levels which results in immense mood swings. Moreover, excessive consumption of caffeine can foster sleep disturbance or anxiety ultimately contributing to irritability. Dehydration can also lead to increased irritability so it is better to stay hydrated to maintain overall mood. Also, if you have allergy issues with any food, you have to cut it out of your diet so that your mood will not be affected.
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Physical and Mental Health Issues
Anger development in the population can be greatly influenced by problems with both physical and mental health.
Physical health issues like chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, and neurological disorders can also influence the behaviors of people. What if you are in constant physical pain and you are not able to get the aid you need? Won’t it decrease your patience and contribute to a great deal of anger or frustration? Moreover, people suffering from brain injuries have the least amount of patience to control their pain hence leading to increased irritability. Also, changes in our hormones can have a significant impact on our moods and emotions. This can involve experiencing anger that is more intense than usual. Are you taking different medications? Please keep in mind that consumption of certain medications can have severe side effects which can foster a wave of increased anger and irritation. If your anger is a major source of concern for those around you, you should consider taking anger management classes.
When it comes to mental health issues, depression takes first place. People suffering from depression are usually associated with immense sadness. It can generate a constant situation of tension ultimately leading to irritability over minor triggers.
Lifestyle Changes to Overcome Anger
As we have discussed the common causes of irritability and anger now it’s time to learn how to control anger.
- Firstly, you need to seek professional help for sure. Your healthcare provider will manage all your physical health issues (such as chronic pain or hormonal issues) that are leading to anger and significant irritability. In case of mental support, contact an experienced psychiatrist who can help diagnose any available mental health issues.
- Secondly, you need to modify your lifestyle. Exercising regularly, consuming a healthy diet, and getting adequate sleep are all you should do to overcome anger and irritability issues.
- Thirdly, focus on different stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation, time management, and relaxation techniques. These practices can help relax your mind and manage critical moments of anger.
- Fourthly, try to express your thoughts and feelings clearly. Direct communication without anger and healthily taking disagreements can help reduce frustration and ultimately reduce irritation.
- Lastly, try to be social. Hang out with family and friends so you will get emotional support when dealing with any physical and mental health issues.