Mood Swings and Age

[Ravenfreak]

Do you believe that age can affect mood swings and make them worse? I feel like the older I get, the moodier I tend to get and things can annoy me quicker than they once did in the past. I was wondering if anyone else is dealing with this as they continue to age and if so do you have tips on how I can deal with this? Maybe if I start taking deep breaths and telling myself that these things aren't as bad as my brain tells me they are it could help.

 

[Hazel]

Yes, age can influence mood, but not in a simple “older equals moody” way.
As people get older, a few things can change at once: stress builds up over time, sleep quality can shift, responsibilities increase, and patience can wear thinner. So it can feel like small things get annoying faster, even if your personality hasn’t fundamentally changed.
The good news is what you’re already thinking about is actually on the right track. Slowing down your response helps a lot.

 

[Shree]

Yeah, mood swings don't just hit teens. Perimenopause, andropause, even just the stress of midlife can mess with your emotions. You're tired, your body's changing, and suddenly little things set you off. It's not "being dramatic" it's biology and life piling up. Best thing is noticing the pattern and not beating yourself up over it.

 

[Shortie]

I am finding this the older I get. I just turned 40, and I am finding that my mood swings have gotten worse, especially if I am going through a lot in life that is causing me a lot of stress.

I have found that finding time to do the things I enjoy, taking time for myself and just being on my own if I need that has helped a great deal in how I feel in terms of mood. Sometimes life can get too much, and taking a step back for yourself can make a huge difference.