Why am I so irritable?

If you’re reading this article, you’re probably searching for why you are so irritable, easily annoyed, and snippy with your partner, children, friends, coworkers, parents, the list goes on and on. There are several different reasons why you could be experiencing increased irritation, but one of them directly relates to your mental health. When people let their mental health “slip” irritability will oftentimes be one of their main reported symptoms. 

Several mental health related issues can present with irritability, though the most common I see as a licensed mental health therapist is depression and anxiety. These issues oftentimes stem from our needs not being met, both physically and emotionally. Stress, “bad” sleep, chronic pain, hormone changes, burnout, and traumatic events can all play a role in developing depression and anxiety. 

Depression can present with low mood, sadness, lack of energy, irritability, frustration, thoughts of harming self, suicide, or thoughts such as “things would be easier if I wasn’t here”, difficulty making decisions, displaying slow movements or restlessness, sleeping difficulties or oversleeping, changes to appetite, and body aches and pains.  

On the other hand, anxiety can present with excessive worry, feeling on edge, irritability, frustration, difficulty concentrating, feeling persistently overwhelmed, as well as more physical symptoms such as body aches and pains, rapid heart rate, sweating, shaking, dizziness, tightness in chest, and shortness of breath. 

When we are feeling emotional overwhelm or persistent low energy/feeling down, our ability to handle daily stressors decrease often resulting in becoming easily frustrated or irritable. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may benefit from seeking out help from a licensed professional. Sometimes we don’t know what is causing all of these issues, but a professional can help you sift through them and give you the tools you need to regain your patience.  

In the meantime work on prioritizing the things in life that make you feel whole. If you love biking, get out there and bike (even if you don’t feel like it). If you love reading, go walk around a book store and pick up a new book you can immerse yourself in. And PLEASE try and put your work down in the evening— your brain needs a break!

If you are a Wisconsin resident and are interested in starting therapy, reach out here to talk with me, Anika Heaverlo, Licensed Professional Counselor, about starting therapy today.