Mood Swings

Is it normal when you are very happy and then suddenly a wave of sadness hits you out of the sudden? And then the sadness last for a few days. I dont know why but I was so happy a few days and suddenly I just feel very miserable. Im overthinking. Im hating on myself. And the thing is, its like Im in a loop. Im miserable then Im happy and Im back to miserable again. There will be days with so signs of being sad and I am really happy but then suddenly Im just so sad. Sometimes my mood is affected by people words since I am really sensitive but sometimes the negative thoughts just get to me. Is it because my mood swings are so intense?

Dear @ais

Thank you for writing in to check if what you are going through is normal. I think it’s understandable and quite normal to experience lows and highs especially when we have undergone a lot of stress or anxiety.

My own experience is that when we are emotionally stretched, our mood can move in waves. We could feel genuinely happy for a while, then suddenly we are hit by a wave of sadness. That doesn’t negate the happiness felt, but rather it is a sign that our system is tired and may need to regulate.

Feeling more sensitive during this period is also certainly relatable. This means words and thoughts affect us more deeply, so overthinking and self-criticism can quickly pull us into feeling down.

The “loop” you described which is you feel happy momentarily, then miserable, then happy again often happens when the mind keeps returning to negative thoughts. This is especially common when anyone is emotionally exhausted that there is nothing left in the tank.

May I suggest the following for your consideration:

  • When sadness appears, try not to judge it. Tell yourself: “This is a low wave. It will pass.”I

  • If self-hate thoughts start, label them as just thoughts, remind yourself these are not facts.

  • Ground your body (walk, shower, slow breathing) before trying to think your way out.

  • Recharge by taking a break or doing something you enjoy that could fill your tank.

Most importantly: feeling happy sometimes doesn’t mean you won’t feel sad again, and feeling sad doesn’t erase the good moments. You can get better and you will be able to soften emotional waves over time, by practising some of the recommended steps shared. Observe your own patterns and slowly improve with practice. :yellow_heart:

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