We’ve all experienced the peaks and valleys of our moods. Some mood swings are attributed of situational events such as job issues, interpersonal matters or relationship concerns. Other more complex and
mystifying associations with mood swings are hormonal imbalances. These types of mood swings sneak up slowly on perimenopausal women and can eventually wreak havoc on a once calm and unflappable personality.
The entry into perimenopause never arrives at an opportune moment, nor is it rarely welcomed. The hallmark cause of the series of symptoms and side affects suffered by women in menopause has all to do with hormonal imbalance. As the hormone production of estrogen, progesterone and androgen begin its downward spiral at the onset of perimenopause, most women begin to experience a baffling host of undesirable symptoms. Hot flashes, night sweats, irritability, memory lapses, decreased libido, insomnia and austere mood swings are just a few of the symptoms that a woman may experience in menopause.
Moody Menopause Symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of menopausal mood swings can be the first step in realizing that this is your “new normal” for the time being. Recognizing the possible symptoms will make it easier in discovering ways to effectively cope. Just knowing that mood swings may be a part many a women’s journey to menopause may help you feel less confused and alienated.
1. Mood changes
More sensitive women feel and suffer the affect of hormone imbalances on their path to menopause than others. Let’s face it, we are all unique individuals and use different techniques to cope with change. Mood changes can be much worse for some women than others.
2. Aggressiveness
Many women develop an attitude of hostility that hadn’t been a part of their personality previous to perimenopause. This change in behavior often comes of a shock to co-workers, friends and close family. Sudden angry outbursts are characteristic events in women suffering from aggressive tendencies in their mood swings.
3. Feeling sad
Sadness is another symptom that should be closely monitored as it can morph into a full blown depression.
4. Irritability
This is a common mood swing symptom that plagues perimenopausal women and can transform into aggressiveness if not kept in check. Little things that were never previously bothersome may now become sources of consistent annoyance.
5. Lack of motivation
When a woman is suffering from the valleys of these mood swings, it is extremely difficult to find the motivation to perform duties and activities she may have once enjoyed.
6. Tension
With all the new symptoms introduced into a woman’s life due to the perimenopausal hormone imbalances, stress becomes magnified and is harder to manage resulting in increased tension.
7. Fatigue
Menopausal mood swings are part of the domino effect of all symptoms associated with menopause. Loss of sleep caused by insomnia and night sweats can significantly and adversely influence moodiness.
8. Anxiety
Being unsure and apprehensive to this new territory of
menopausal mood swings can create anxiety for fear of the unknown.
9. Difficulty concentrating
The mind seems to take on its own limited attention span in menopausal women. This results in an increasing struggle to focus on the task at hand, or to complete long term projects.
10. Crying Jags
Sudden and unexpected bursts of tears is a symptom tied to menopause that can surprise and often embarrass many women. A comment, a gesture or even a commercial on TV can spark an eruption of tears.