Irritability - Renew Health Clinic

What is irritability?

Irritability is defined as an excessive sensitivity or annoyance to small problems, issues, or delays. It refers to a low tolerance for things that may not bother others and a tendency to overreact with anger or frustration.

Common Signs of Irritability

• Becoming easily annoyed by minor inconveniences
• Quick temper and frequent mood swings
• Overreacting to small frustrations
• Difficulty coping with stress or changes in routine
• Increased tension, impatience, or edginess
• Snapping at friends/family or lashing out verbally

Causes of Irritability

Irritability can have many underlying causes, including:

• Lack of sleep
• Hormonal changes
• Chronic pain or illness
• Anxiety or depression disorders

Managing Irritability

If you struggle with frequent irritability, some self-care tips include:

• Getting enough sleep and physical activity
• Practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation
• Talking to a counselor or therapist
• Communicating feelings clearly and directly
• Taking timeouts when feeling angry or frustrated

When to Seek Help

While occasional irritability is normal, seek professional care if anger/mood issues:

• Last for over 2 weeks
• Severely impact work, relationships, health
• Involve violent behavior or suicidal thoughts

Consult a doctor or mental health provider for evaluation and treatment options. Counseling may help manage chronic irritability.