Do you ever feel cranky, super-sensitive, impatient, snappish, crabby, moody, want-to-bite someone’s head off, annoyed, surly, grouchy, prickly, testy, touchy, or otherwise best described as being in a foul-tempered mood? If so you may be experiencing irritability, one of the possible symptoms of depression. When most people conjure up an image of a person suffering from depression we tend to think of a person who is despondent, sad, and crying. Yet sadness is only a partial portrait of depression and its many symptomatic nuances. We instinctively want to comfort the person who is feeling down or who is crying. But when we encounter a friend or loved one who is snapping out at us and spewing venom, our instinct may be to run away. The symptom of irritability is usually not endearing to the rest of the world. In this post we are going to explore this symptom of depression as well as possible causes and solutions.
What is irritability?
Irritability has been defined by some as an excessive reaction to external or internal stimuli. Others describe irritability as the state of easily being excited to impatience and anger. Irritability is not just a mental state. It is also a symptom of a wide variety of medical and/or mental health conditions. If you have been feeling irritable for awhile, as in more than two weeks, it is definitely something to take a look at and figure out what is causing this symptom.
Who is susceptible to feeling irritable?
While everyone experiences bouts of irritability from time to time, there are certain populations who may be more prone to chronic or extreme irritability.
Individuals more likely to experience the symptom of irritability include:
• Men who suffer from depression
Male depression can manifest in feelings of anger, aggression, and irritability. One of our writers for MyDepressionConnection, John Folk-Williams, describes how irritability and anger were primary symptoms of his depression.
• Children and teens who are clinically depressed
One of the noted symptoms of pediatric depression is irritability. If your child or teen is experiencing excessive irritability, moodiness, as well as sleep and appetite changes, these may be the warning signs of depression.
• Depressed Women
Depression can cause irritability for some women. In addition, hormonal changes which take place during the course of a woman’s life can also increase feelings of irritability. PMS, pregnancy, peri-menopause, and menopause can all have a profound effect upon mood and one’s ability to deal with stressors.
• Individuals Diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder
Excessive irritability can also be a sign of bipolar mania. Other signs of mania may include the decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, increased talking, grandiose notions, and poor judgment. For more information about mania and hypomania please visit Health Central’s BipolarConnect.
What causes irritability in addition to depression and Bipolar Disorder?
