Most people experience occasional bouts of irritability, often coupled with feelings of anger and anxiety. However, when this condition becomes chronic and severe, it might indicate an underlying medical issue, such as anxiety or depression. Here’s what you need to know about this condition:
What is Irritability?
Irritability is a mental state characterized by a combination of feelings including irritability, anxiety, and anger. Individuals with this condition tend to be impatient and short-tempered, often reacting quickly with frustration to even minor issues. Abby Wilson, a licensed clinical social worker in Houston, suggests, “While anxiety is a natural human emotion, if experienced excessively, it’s likely a medical problem that needs treatment.” Persistent and disruptive episodes of moodiness or irritability can be signs of mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression. It can also be associated with physical problems like brain injury or sudden drug withdrawal.
Signs of Irritability
Irritability can manifest in various symptoms including restlessness, difficulty focusing attention, mood swings, particularly irritability and anxiety, aggressiveness, physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, tension, and restlessness.
Causes of Irritability
There isn’t a single cause for this condition. According to Debra Stultz, MD, a psychiatrist in Barboursville, West Virginia, “The causes can be multifactorial, acute, or chronic.” Occasional irritability can stem from various common minor issues such as repetitive motions, financial problems, or work deadlines. Chronic irritability may also be caused by psychological and physical factors.
Psychological Causes
Irritability is a common feature in several mental disorders. Persistent mood irritability is frequently observed in individuals diagnosed with anxiety and depression. Some genetic research suggests that irritability may be an inherited trait for some individuals. Psychological causes of irritability may include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, or sudden onset of severe sleepiness. It may also include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and dementia.
Physical Triggers
Physical discomfort, pain, or stress can also trigger irritability, says Dr. Sultinoff. “Physical restlessness is usually chronic, which, over time, affects the ability to handle the emotional and physical pain associated with feeling restless.” Causes of this condition may include chronic pain, various medications such as steroids, stimulants, antidepressants, and some antihypertensives. Other causes may involve pre-menstrual syndrome, brain injury, underactive or overactive thyroid, drug withdrawal, or low blood sugar.
Causes of Irritability in Children
Children showing signs of aggression are usually referred for mental health evaluations. Although moodiness is a normal response to stress, chronic and severe irritability may indicate a larger problem such as depression, anxiety, autism, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Children with ODD often display a condition in which they refuse to listen and obey anyone, seeing their peers, parents, and teachers as competitors. Some studies suggest that irritability in children may lead to anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder later in life.
Diagnosis of Irritability
While irritability is not considered a mental disorder and cannot be formally diagnosed, individuals experiencing these symptoms should seek help. “People experiencing irritability can benefit from mental health care services to manage these feelings,” says Wilson. Therapy can help individuals understand the underlying causes of irritability and may involve learning new coping mechanisms to better understand and manage emotions.
Treatment
A mental health practitioner will assess factors contributing to a person’s irritability. While there is no single treatment for irritability, approaches such as Parent Management Training (PMT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) have shown improvement in children.
Precautions
Though there’s no official cure for irritable mood symptoms, managing the condition involves several precautions:
- Avoid caffeine, smoking, and alcohol
- Ensure at least seven hours of uninterrupted sleep each night
- Identify and avoid triggers of irritability
- Identify activities that bring peace of mind, such as worship, exercise, reading, or listening to music
- Practice mindfulness
When to Consult a Doctor?
If you frequently experience severe irritability, or if these feelings significantly impact your daily life, it’s advisable to seek help from a medical professional.
This understanding of irritability can help individuals recognize its signs, seek appropriate treatment, and take necessary precautions to manage this condition effectively.
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