Some people have mood swings on a regular basis that are a roller coaster not just for themselves, but for everyone around them.
There are a number of causes for these unstable emotional states, from mental and physical health conditions to medications, hormonal changes, and even diet. While dealing with someone who experiences mood swings is no walk in the park, here’s what sufferers want you to know. (I know because I’m one of them.)
1. We’re not doing this on purpose.
Seriously, we’re not trying to be difficult. It’s not like we wake up and think, “You know what would be fun? Emotional whiplash!” If we could control it, we would. It’s frustrating for us too, maybe even more so than for you.
2. We’re not always aware of our mood changes.
Sometimes, we’re the last to notice we’ve gone from sunshine to storm clouds. It can be just as surprising for us as it is for you. One minute we’re laughing, the next we’re scowling, and we’re sat here wondering what just happened.
3. It’s not about you.
When we suddenly go quiet or snap, it’s rarely because of something you’ve done. Our mood swings are internal battles, not a reflection of our feelings towards you. Don’t take it personally — we’re just wrestling with our own emotional gremlins.
4. We appreciate your patience more than you know.
When you stick with us through the ups and downs, it means the world. We know it’s not easy dealing with our emotional yo-yoing. Your understanding is like a warm hug for our chaotic minds.
5. Sometimes, we need space.
When we’re in a mood, hovering over us or trying to fix things might make it worse. Sometimes, we just need a bit of alone time to reset. It’s like when your computer’s acting up — sometimes you just need to turn it off and on again.
6. We’re not bipolar (unless we are).
Mood swings don’t automatically mean we have bipolar disorder. There are lots of reasons for mood swings — hormones, stress, lack of sleep, you name it. Let’s not play armchair psychiatrist, yeah? If we’re concerned, we’ll chat with a professional.
7. We’re trying our best to manage it.
Trust us, we’re not just sitting back and enjoying the ride. We’re often working hard behind the scenes to keep our moods in check. It’s like trying to juggle while riding a unicycle — not easy, but we’re giving it our all.
8. Your support means everything.
When you stick by us, even when we’re not the easiest to be around, it’s huge. Your steady presence is like an emotional anchor in our stormy seas. Just knowing you’re there, even if you’re not actively doing anything, can make a world of difference.
9. We feel guilty about our mood swings.
We know our ups and downs affect those around us, and we feel rubbish about it. The guilt can be overwhelming sometimes. It’s like we’re watching ourselves on a screen, cringing at our own behaviour but feeling powerless to change it.
10. We’re not always ‘fine’ when we say we are.
Sometimes, we say we’re okay because we don’t want to bother you, or we can’t explain what we’re feeling. It’s not that we’re lying — it’s just easier than trying to put our jumbled emotions into words. It’s like trying to describe a colour you’ve never seen before.
11. Small things can make a big difference.
A cup of tea, a hug, or just sitting quietly with us can help more than you know. These little gestures are like emotional first aid kits. They might not fix everything, but they can certainly take the edge off.
12. We’re more than our mood swings.
Our emotions might be all over the shop, but they don’t define us. We have interests, skills, and personalities beyond our moods. Sometimes, we need reminding of this, too. It’s easy to forget there’s more to us when we’re stuck on the emotional merry-go-round.
13. We appreciate when you call us out (gently).
If we’re being unreasonable, it’s okay to tell us — kindly. Sometimes we need that reality check. It’s like having spinach in your teeth — you’d want someone to tell you, right? Just do it with love and understanding.
14. Our good moods are genuine.
When we’re happy, we’re really happy. It’s not fake or just the calm before the storm. We’re not always teetering on the edge of a bad mood. Sometimes, we’re just genuinely enjoying life, and those moments are precious to us.
15. We’re working on it.
Whether it’s therapy, medication, meditation, or just being more self-aware, we’re trying to get better. It’s a process, and we might have setbacks, but we’re putting in the effort. It’s like trying to tame a wild horse — it takes time, patience, and a lot of practice.
