Motivation and emotion/Book/2025/Moodiness

Moodiness:
What is moodiness, what are its consequences, and how can it be managed?

Overview

Case study: Penny's journey through emotional turbulence

Client Profile:

Name: Penny
Age: 19
Presenting concerns: Mood swings, family conflict, interpersonal tension

Background

Penny is embarking on her first placement as a nursing student. She is experiencing anxiety and emotional reactivity and reports feeling “on edge most of the time.” There is no clear cause and her attempts to express her feelings to her mum result in arguments. Her mum reports Penny has a history of moodiness, first presentation being at age 13.

Although moodiness is generally regarded as an unpleasant characteristic, it might be a sign of underlying problems in people (Costello et al., 2002). Moodiness is frequently associated with being sensitive, irritable, or easily agitated by things that do not bother others (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). However, in psychological research and practice, it is important to recognise that moodiness can be an indication of an underlying problem. Consistent low mood is often associated with depressive disorders, and irritability can be an early warning sign. On the other side of the spectrum, an unusually high mood can be an indicator of mania or hyper-mania, and can be associated with bipolar disorders. Moodiness can be generally prominent is adolescents, which is attributed to parts of the developing brain learning to handle and process information, and the emotional reactivity that ensues. Professor Ian Hickie stipulates that by the age of 25, mood tends to stabilise and for most people without underlying mental health conditions, the emotional reactivity and sensitivity to criticism will eventually become more regulated. (Hickie & O'Loghlin, 2022).

Focus questions

What is moodiness?
What are the consequences of moodiness?
How can moodiness be managed?
What does the current literature propose as effective solutions?

What is moodiness?

How can we understand mood?

In the discipline of psychology, researchers have incorporated this analogy to distinguish between a person’s mood and their day to day affect/emotional reactivity (Broome et al., 2015).

If emotions/affect is the daily weather, mood can be likened to the season i.e. if someone reacts emotionally appropriately and consistently with accepted norms, their mood is relatively stable and it is unlikely that they have an underlying mental health concern. On the other hand, if someone has an erratic emotional reactivity, and seems to be quite sensitive to feedback, this might be as a result of an unstable mood, or they might be described as being a moody person (Hickie & O'Loghlin, 2022).

Have a listen to this podcast episode where Professor Ian Hickie and author/broadcaster James O'Loghlin discuss moodiness from a psychiatric point of view! Prof Hickie delves deep into this analogy. https://open.spotify.com/episode/1qLvyyFVJSfsE1wCrtdsrx?si=LAZOOgwqQaqAQ9IH4j_wLg<

Moodiness...

Have you ever felt moody for no reason? Or have you ever been in a mood for a long period but just cannot figure out why?

The study of moodiness from the psychological science perspective incorporates the psychosocial and biological factors that contribute to mood and the prolonging of negative mood. Implementing science and strategies based on psychological science can help people struggling with mood disorders to improve functioning.

Social understanding of mood.

The social understanding of mood is an interpretation, response and influence of emotions (Clark et al., 2018). A social perspective looks at the interaction of a person's mood in the context of their social and physical environment (Wuff, 2024). It is symbiotic in nature, as external factors impacts a person's emotions and their mood, as does a person's mood inform and impact the environment around them (Clark et al., 2018). Another component of the social perspective is that mood is communicative and can act as a signal or a behavioural response (Lee and An, 2023). Mood can be expressed not only verbally, but via social cues as well, such as facial expressions, tone of voice and body language. These expressions can signal moods and in turn can impact the social environment (Clark et al., 2018).

Biological and physiological understanding of mood.

The biological perspective looks to the physiological and neurological factors that contribute to mood (Price, and Drevets , 2010). These could be an interaction of chemicals in the brain and the structural make up of the brain (Das, 2018). Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that pass information between neurons, and there are several neurotransmitters that play a part in moods and mood regulation (Electricwala, 2024). Serotonin functions to regulate mood broadly, as well as sleep and appetite (Electricwala, 2024). Low levels of serotonin are associated with depressive mood disorders and irritability (Electricwala, 2024). Dopamine is key in feelings of reward, motivation and pleasure, thus low levels of dopamine are associated with anhedonia (the loss of pleasure) and low mood (Electricwala, 2024). Finally, another key neurotransmitter is norepinephrine which is involved in alertness and arousal (Electricwala, 2024). Dysregulation of this can lead to fatigue and depressed moods, whereas high levels contribute to anxiety or agitation (Electricwala, 2024).

The structures of the brain that contribute to moodiness include the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus and anterior cingulate cortex (Mendoza, 2024).

There are also hormonal components of mood, including the interaction of cortisol with the brain (Berga and Smith, 2012). Cortisol is known as the ‘stress hormone’ which can result in irritability, anxiety and ultimately low mood if prolonged production occurs (Berga and Smith, 2012). Another is thyroid hormones which when unbalanced can lead to depression or irritability (Berga and Smith, 2012).

Research demonstrates that genetic factors can also influence the biology behind mood (Naoi et al., 2025). Findings determine specific genes can influence neurotransmitter systems and can increase susceptibility to mood disorders (Chen et al., 2024). This has been demonstrated in twin and family studies which have found that genetics have an approximately 30-40% contribution to the risk of major depressive disorder (Gordovez and McMahon, 2020). For bipolar disorders, the genetic component accounts for approximately 60-80% (Gordovez and McMahon, 2020).

Finally, the biological perspective has two prominent theories at the forefront of research in the area. One is the Monoamine hypothesis which stipulates there is a linkage to depression with serotonin, norepinephrine or dopamine deficiencies (Brown et al., 2023). This theory was initially praised for its contribution to the development of early antidepressants which targeted monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine (Barchas & Altemus, 1999). However, it has, faced criticism in the modern day of psychological treatment for being oversimplified and fails to explain why antidepressants often take weeks to commence effectiveness, not being affective for all patients, and fails to account for the side effects of use which has become prominent factors of the development of depressive disorders (Barchas & Altemus, 1999; Brown et al., 2023). The other theory is the neuroplasticity hypothesis which suggests chronic stress or depression can lead to reduced neural connectivity and the brain’s ability to learn the way to adapt, thus impacting mood regulation (Price and Duman, 2020). further this hypothesis suggests that depressive disorders are associated with a dysfunction in the brain and its ability to adapt the neurological structure and its functions as a result of experience (Rădulescu et al., 2021). This theory has faced criticism in regards to the lack of empirical evidence that supports the notion that the make up of certain neuroplasticity causes the disorder (Rădulescu et al., 2021).

Psychological understanding of mood.

The psychological perspective of mood combines both the social and biological perspectives, and employs the nature versus nurture debate to determine what causes moodiness and mood regulation (Wood and Coan, 2023). This perspective also takes into account cognitive processes and emphasises the roles of thoughts and their influence on mood (Forgas, 2017). Cognitive distortions are thought to be heavily involved in mood swings (Friedman, 2023). These distortions can look like mindsets that are ‘all-or-nothing’, or resort to catastrophising (Friedman, 2023).

What are the consequences of moodiness?

The consequences of mood can lead to social conflict between a person who is considered moody and the people close to them, and in turn can develop into social isolation. Further, moodiness can be an initial sign of an underlying mental health condition, and if left unaddressed can lead to someone suffering with a condition beyond their capacity to deal with it. Finally, not addressing moodiness can impact an individual and the social environment around them, but similarly an environment where moodiness is present among a group of people can impact members of the group as well.

Personal and social conflict.

Consequences of moodiness can lead to interpersonal tensions and conflict amongst a person and the people close to them. It can result in irritability, miscommunication and provocation. This can ultimately lead to conflict amongst families, friendships and relationships, and also professional relationships in the workplace. There may be a sense of distrust and isolation, where others perceive the moodiness as unpredictable, and thus the person may be considered unreliable and unstable. A cycle of conflict or escalation may ensue, whereby a person’s moodiness can be triggering for others and increase hostility. Ultimately, this may lead to social isolation, in an effort to avoid confrontation, parties of the other side may begin to withdraw from the relationship to avoid further conflict (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025).

Mental health conditions.

Further consequences include mental health conditions. As historically accepted, mood may be a result of underlying mental health conditions, such as depressive disorders, as well as anxiety and bipolar disorders, and personality disorders (Costello et al., 2002). As discussed, the biological perspective stipulates that chronic low mood and stress can be a leading cause of mental health conditions, persistent low mood can lead to depressive disorders and moodiness with chronic worry and stress can evolve into anxiety disorders. Moodiness that is persistent and severe may be an indication of an underlying condition, such as bipolar disorder whereby there are high and low periods, often marking unconventional behaviours (Hurley et al., 2022).

Impact on individual and collective functioning - potential harm.

The impact of mood on an individual’s functioning can mean that they face cognitive difficulties, every day tasks can seem overwhelming, they may face difficulty with concentration and decision-making, often appearing flighty in their thinking (Forgas, 2017). Moodiness may impact their ability to work productively in work or in school, which may impact their performance, and could result in a loss of achievements integral to their work. This is a cycle that can disrupt their ability to care for themselves with day-to-day living, and ultimately their moodiness may mean they lose their social support network (Mendoza, 2024).

Impacts on collective functioning could mean their social environments are impacted such as their family unit, social group of friends and also their workplace circle (Eisenberg et al., 1997). This could impact each group significantly, and conflict may be the end result. Group harmony may not be able to withstand the moodiness, and may lead to relationship breakdowns (Andrewes and Jenkins, 2019). Ultimately, the moodiness of a person may result in their social isolation (Costello et al., 2002).

How can it moodiness be managed?

There are various way to address moodiness and to manage it in day-to-day life. These can include implementing micro-level management strategies, incorporating medicinal intervention, and also addressing moodiness with the help of therapies. A combination of all three strategies is likely to contribute to an effective management of moodiness (Lucido and Dunlop, 2025).

Micro level management.

There are many micro-level strategies that a person experiencing moodiness can incorporate to help manage irregular mood swings. See Figure 4 above.

Medicinal intervention.

There is a strong correlation with moodiness as a symptom of an underlying mental health condition (Wang and Cao, 2024). Seeking medical intervention can be the first step in finding which management option is the most suitable (Tate, 2020). Medical practitioners can help to instigate a process by which further investigation or therapies can be put in place to treat moodiness. Further, moodiness can be a symptom of other underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders, vitamin D deficiencies, hormonal issues or neurological issues (Bernardes et al., 2024). By implementing this intervention, the root cause could be something that is simple to treat.

There are further screening tools that can be used to determine if the moodiness is a result of a mental health condition (Umass Chan Medical School, 2022). Medications can also help to manage moodiness, such as anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication to help improve functioning, and counter overbearing moodiness . Further medical support can look like help with sleep management, nutritional support or neuromodulation techniques (ECT or TMS) (Lucido and Dunlop, 2025).

Therapeutic based intervention.

Further therapy based interventions are also available. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a common approach to target the reframing of automatic/learned cognitive thinking patterns (Tolin, 2024). Psychologists can help develop new conscious thinking tools to disrupt negative self-talk which has proven to improve affect (Tolin, 2024). Mood can be positively impacted by this because it encourages realistic reframing and behavioural activation Awadalla and Glazebrook, 2025).

Emotion-focused and insight-based approaches can also be beneficial as it can help find tools to regulate strong emotions rather than restoring to suppression of avoidance of such emotions (Shah et al., 2017). Interpersonal and relational therapies can help improve relationships that have been impacted deeply by the onset of moodiness, and having a dedicated time to talk through emotions and the implications of mood swings can help build stronger connections and empathy (Lucido and Dunlop, 2025).

What does the current literature propose as solutions?

Prevention and early intervention.

Often moodiness can be put down to increased stress in work or personal life, but when it starts to impact daily life, relationships and work, people are often alarmed. Prevention and early intervention are ideal strategies where possible (Jirakran et al., 2025). This looks like education and psychoeducation around emotional regulation, stress management and healthy ways to cope with mood swings (Jirakran et al., 2025). Literature on the topic also urges that having an understanding of what is normal in a person’s affect is important in understanding when moodiness is a regular response or if something deeper is at play (Berenbaum and Oltmanns, 2003). Other beneficial interventions include skill building programs such as social-emotional learning in schools that spreads awareness and helps implement mindfulness, emotional regulation and problem solving from a young age (Do and Giang, 2024). Finally, the maintenance of a well-balanced lifestyle can help prevent mood-related problems (Shah et al., 2017). This can look like consistent sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise and stress reduction (Shah et al., 2017).

Addressing vulnerable populations and demographics.

The current literature also emphasises that interventions should be tailored to those at the highest risk. Adolescents and young adults can be specifically prone to mood swings as a result of physiological changes such as puberty where hormonal, social and identity-related changes are prevalent (Awadalla et al., 2025). Mental health awareness and management programs in schools are found to be particularly effective in conjunction with strong social support from friends, teachers and family Awadalla et al., 2025).

For individuals with a history of mental health conditions, they have a vulnerability to mood regulation struggles (Jirakran et al., 2025). The literature recommends ongoing monitoring of symptoms and engaging in ongoing therapeutic support to help manage the conditions (Jirakran et al., 2025).

Socioeconomically disadvantaged groups are also susceptible to mood challenges, and accessibility to help can be a barrier (Jespersen et al., 2025). People in this category often face stress such as financial insecurity, poor housing and discrimination (Jespersen et al., 2025). These elements can have an impact on mood and create instability. Community based programs and access to affordable mental health services are paramount interventions that often need to be implemented with the help of governmental or institutional agencies (Jespersen et al., 2025).

Enhancement of understanding of psychological components.

The literature also details that research and education of the psychological mechanism behind mood is paramount (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). Emotional regulation research that enhances understanding around cognition and emotional reactivity can help inform coping strategies and guide therapy and educational programs that will counter issues of ambiguity in the area (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). The integration of biological research with mood helps to provide a deep understanding of the ‘why’ (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). Research shows that often understanding the scientific and biological reasoning for mental health can be an enlightening insight for those struggling, and can prevent further negative self talk, preventing poor cognitive patterns (Wang and Cao, 2024).

Conclusion

While moodiness is considered colloquially as an undesirable trait, it can indicate underlying issues in individuals (Costello et al., 2002). Often people associate moodiness with someone who is sensitive, nit-picky, or easily annoyed about things that others are not bothered by (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). However, moodiness is a trait that can help indicate underlying mental health issues (Costello et al., 2002). When someone is moody, often the people around them just assume they are having a 'bad day' or that it is just who they are. There are a multitude of contributors to moodiness as researched using neuroscientific lenses, sociological perspectives and broader psychological theories. There are many ways of interpreting moods and psychological study takes multiple facets of a person's psychology and biology into account.

The consequences of moodiness can have implications on a person's social life, personal life at large and work life. Further, moodiness may manifest into a personality that peers and loved ones struggle to be around, and avoid in order to limit conflict and turmoil. Moodiness may indicate underlying mental illness such as major depressive disorder, or bipolar disorders (Sanchez-Sanchez et al., 2025). With the interventions available today, these symptoms can be addressed and help improve the quality of life of a person experiencing moodiness as well as the people around them.

The management of moodiness can be addressed using a range of interventions. The onset of moodiness may be as a result of lifestyle factors, lack of self-awareness, lack of effective stress management strategies as well as a lack of a healthy routine (Hickie & O’Loughlin, 2022). Each of these factors can be improved through the use of reaching out to a trusted loved one to help incorporate tools to utilise day to day. Social support is an important factor in managing moodiness and can often help resolve any potential or current conflicts (Hickie & O’Loughlin, 2022). Prominent research stipulates that mental health conditions can be managed effectively using therapeutic and medicinal interventions, but it is important that the care is tailored to the individual to address the origin of the moodiness and to implement strategies that will be used and ongoing (Tate, 2020; Bernardes et al., 2024; Tolin, 2024).

The current literature proposes prevention and early intervention as being a primary solution (Jirakran et al., 2025). This means educating the population, and particularly those at risk, about moodiness and its consequences (Jirakran et al., 2025). Prof Hickie (2022) stipulates that the engagement of children in sports is an important tool to manage moodiness in your children. Historically, as children grow and reach adolescence, there is a significant decline in participation in sports which can be a healthy expression of emotions, while biologically regulating hormones (Hickie & O’Loghlin, 2022). Thus, implementing systemic action and initiatives to help identify appropriate strategies is an effective way of solving the problem of moodiness, particularly in young adults (Shah et al., 2017). Further, addressing the psychological needs of vulnerable populations such as those with high susceptibility to mood disorders, is considered to be a crucial solution (Awadalla et al., 2025). Finally, by continuing to research the components of moodiness and mood at large is instrumental in maintaining a high quality of care (Wang and Cao, 2024).

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