Changes in a woman's temper can be annoying, but when the intensity and frequency of mood swings become unpredictable, and uncontrollable, we know we have a problem on our hands. Not knowing when mood swings will strike is not only frustrating for the woman herself, but also for her loved ones, friends and co-workers. They no longer recognize the once stable woman, who now is constantly yelling, sweating, crying, hiding, feels depressed, anxious, and showing other unappealing behavior changes.

They are one of the most misunderstood menopause symptoms and to understand the phenomena of 'mood swings' we have to know their cause. Mood swings are actually classified as a psychological disorder, usually defined as 'rapid changes of unpredictable moods.' If not caused by daily stress, overwork and fatigue, they can be provoked by physical changes such as chemical imbalances in the brain, or by low hormone levels. As much as the topic of 'mood swings during menopause' is still a cause for great debate, most experts agree that the constant fluctuation of estrogen, progesterone, and androgen levels have a definite effect on a woman's mental state.

Destabilized emotions need to be treated. Depending on the severity and frequency of the attacks, a lifestyle approach can do the trick, or in more advanced stages, the affected woman may need prescription drugs, or can try alternative medicine to make her feel more energized and upbeat.

There are a variety of effective treatments and therapies to treat menopause. In the case of 'mood swings' however, self-diagnosing and self-help may not be one of them. It is not recommended to tackle this medical condition on your own, as only a trained professional, such as your family physician, can really find out what is wrong. They are educated in this field and know how to best approach the problem, and what your best treatment options may be. Your doctor can order tests to find out exactly what causes your particular mood swings, and if they are related to an onset of menopause, or possibly something else.

A word of advice: if you are experiencing mood swings and feel a mood change coming on, let the people around you know, so they don't think they were the ones provoking your anger or sadness. Sharing what you are going through and how you like them to treat you can be a big relief. Sometimes you may need a hug, and other times you may want solitude. The people around you are not mind readers, and don't know unless you tell them. Believe it, helping others understand that your behavior is out of your control is a good therapy for you, as well as them. There is no shame in admitting that you cannot manipulate your emotions and that you really don't mean to be nasty or withdrawn.