There are times when we suddenly feel irritable and then return to our happy self the very next moment. This can happen to any of us, given the circumstances, and it’s only natural. But if it happens very frequently without any reason to facilitate it, one might wonder. ‘Am I suffering from a mood disorder?’ Well, the answer here may be yes. But not all mood swings mean that you might be suffering from Bipolar Disorder.
Mood changes are a part of being human. Daily stressors, work demands, relationship issues and lack of sleep can become a reason for any mood issue. That does not mean it is simply bipolar behavior. These shifts are usually short-lived and tied to specific triggers. In bipolar disorder, though, mood changes are more intense, long-lasting, and often disconnected from outside events.
Bipolar disorder is a clinical condition that involves episodes of mania, hypomania and depression. These episodes can last for days, weeks or even months, without any reason and ways of improvement. According to The American Journal of Psychiatry, more than 2.4% of the world population suffers from Bipolar disorder, but quite a lot of these people go undiagnosed. This is due to the fact that these people suffer from mood problems but fail to meet the proper criteria.
So, what might cause the mood swings if not bipolar disorder?
● Stress and Anxiety
● Hormonal changes (especially during PMS, pregnancy, or menopause)
● Sleep disturbances
● Personality traits or disorders
● Substance use or withdrawal
● Chronic medical conditions like thyroid imbalances
It is also worth noting that people also often misdiagnose themselves based upon the information that is available online. WIthout any expert intervention, it should not be considered a formal diagnosis of any sort. If you are a resident of Delhi, consulting a psychiatrist in Delhi is the smartest step one can take. If the condition requires intensive support, a rehabilitation centre specialized in mental health may provide a structured environment for treatment and recovery.
Another study in The Lancet Psychiatry also pointed towards the importance of keen and expert intervention. Most times, bipolar disorder is interpreted as anxiety, depression or even ADHD without proper context. This type of misdiagnosis can affect the treatment plan by years.
So, mood swings can definitely indicate a sign of mental illness, but not necessarily bipolar disorder. Whether it is stress, trauma, or something truly critical, it is not necessary for you to face it alone. The best psychiatrist in Delhi can help decode the patterns and guide you towards healing.
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