Mood swings in men are relatively common and may have a variety of causes, although hormonal imbalances are among the leading causes of this symptom. Additional causes may include depression or bipolar disorder. The exact causes of these mood swings are not always easy to diagnose, and a doctor will likely perform blood tests to rule out organic causes before referring the patient to a psychiatrist for psychological testing. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include the use of prescription medications, counseling, or herbal supplements. Any specific questions or concerns about mood swings in men should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.
Hormonal imbalances are the most commonly reported reason for mood swings in men and have been equated with the symptoms of menopause in women. As a man ages, the levels of the male hormone known as testosterone begin to naturally decline. Hormone replacement therapy may be helpful in reducing these symptoms when the mood swings are associated with this type of imbalance. If the mood swings occur in men less than the age of 30 or if the symptoms are severe, there may be another underlying cause for the frequent changes in mood. Simple blood tests can determine whether hormonal issues are present.
Depression has been linked to the development of mood swings in men. This may be due to life changes such as divorce, death of a loved one, or job or financial difficulties. In some cases, there may be an organic cause for depression, such as a chemical imbalance. In addition to mood swings, symptoms of depression may include changes in sleep patterns, an overall feeling of hopelessness, or appetite changes. Treatment for depression often involves a combination of herbal remedies or prescription medications and psychological counseling.
Bipolar disorder is an often misunderstood contributing factor to mood swings in men. The exact causes for this condition are not completely understood, although genetic factors or a history of trauma or abuse are thought to trigger the development of this disorder in many people. Symptoms of bipolar disorder, also referred to as manic-depressive disorder, may include frequent mood swings, abnormal changes in behavior, and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Those with bipolar disorder have a higher than average risk of developing habits of self-injury or suicide. Treatment can be complicated and almost always requires a combination of medications and intensive psychological therapy.