Irritability

What is irritability?

Irritability is defined as an excessive response to stimuli that is usually minor. It refers to a low threshold for becoming annoyed, impatient, or angry.

Some key signs and symptoms of irritability include:

• Feeling impatient, restless or “on edge”


• Getting annoyed more easily than usual


• Snapping at friends or loved ones over minor issues


• Having trouble calming down once upset

Irritability can range from mild to severe. Mild cases may come and go, only flaring up occasionally. More severe irritability is constant and has a bigger impact on relationships and quality of life.

What Causes Irritability?

There are many potential causes of irritability including:

• Hormonal changes - Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, testosterone and cortisol can make it harder to regulate emotions. This is why many women experience irritability before their period.


• Stress - High stress depletes our capacity to manage frustrations.


• Mental health conditions - Anxiety, depression and other disorders are strongly linked to excessive irritability.


• Medical issues - Thyroid problems, chronic pain and sleep disorders can increase irritability.


• Medications - Some prescription drugs list irritability as a side effect.

If you struggle with constant, severe irritability it’s a good idea to see your doctor or a mental health professional. Getting to the root cause is key.

For example, hormonal imbalances are a very common culprit. The experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic specialize in customized hormone therapy to help clients regulate mood, energy, sleep and more. I highly recommend checking out their site for a free virtual consultation!

Healthy Ways To Manage Irritability

Making positive lifestyle changes can go a long way towards lowering everyday irritability. Here are some helpful tips:

• Get enough sleep - Prioritize 7-9 hours per night. Being overtired reduces coping skills.


• Exercise - Aim for 30-60 minutes most days. Physical activity boosts mood and relieves stress.


• Build relaxation habits - Try yoga, deep breathing, meditation, etc. Use these to calm down when feeling irritable.


• Avoid triggers - Notice what situations or people test your patience and limit exposure when possible.


• Talk it out - Confide in trusted friends and family for support. Verbal catharsis helps release the build up.

While everyone gets irritated occasionally, frequent or intense irritability often signals an underlying issue. Pay attention to your body and don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for guidance finding relief! Lifestyle measures alongside treatment of any underlying imbalances can help manage this troublesome symptom.