Irritability may be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions such as premenstrual syndrome, depression or a problem with your thyroid. Generally, irritability is simply a response to excessive external stimulation. Regardless of the cause of your irritability, you may be able to solve it without medication, using simple lifestyle changes.
Instructions
1. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. Most adults require seven to eight hours of sleep, but some need as many as nine or 10. If you are getting significantly less sleep, adjust your schedule so that you are well rested. Bedtime should be your primary break from external stimuli, so aim to get uninterrupted sleep. Also make sure your bedroom is quiet and dark while you sleep.
2. Cut out stimulants. If you are feeling irritable, eliminate or reduce your consumption of stimulants such as caffeine and sugar. It is also important to cut out all alcohol and drugs, which will only make your condition worse.
3. Exercise regularly. Physical activity releases endorphins, which leave you feeling calm. Even 15 minutes of walking, jogging or low-impact aerobics can make a noticeable difference in your mood.
4. Reduce your stress level. If you are consistently irritable, take a few moments to look at whether you are trying to tackle too much. Sometimes the best relief for irritability is learning when to say no and making sure you have enough time to relax and decompress.
5. Talk about it. When you are feeling irritable, you may find it helpful to talk about your frustrations with a trusted friend, family member or counselor.
Tags: feeling irritable