It’s not unusual for a teenager to smile one moment and roll her eyes the next. Usually, these rapid and intense mood swings are a normal part of adolescence. But sometimes mood swings can indicate a more severe problem.
Mood changes during adolescence are partly due to biology. Hormonal shifts that occur during puberty play a significant role in the way teenagers think and feel. As teenagers reach adulthood, they often experience increased irritability, intense sadness, and frequent frustration due to the chemical changes that occur in their brains.
Teenagers’ search for their own identity also plays a role in their state of mind. It is healthy for teens to become independent and establish their own beliefs, goals, and guidelines independent of their parents. If they demonstrate independence, they are likely to experience inner turmoil that manifests itself as dramatic behavior.
Healthy adolescent development leads teenagers to ask themselves, “Who am I?”. This is why teenagers sometimes go through some exciting phases during adolescence. A teenager can dress in black clothes for six months and then look for the smartest outfits she can find.
Establishing independence allows teens to experience a variety of emotions. They can feel sad, scared, and lonely about the future while at the same time feeling excited about their burgeoning freedom. These intense emotions can lead to different mood swings.
It is essential to keep a cool head when dealing with a grumpy or moody teenager. Raising your voice or using sarcasm will only make the situation worse. Respond in a calm but firm way and hold your teen responsible for disrespectful leaning back and behaviour.
Encouraging healthy sleeping habits is one of the best ways to tackle a teenager’s mood. An overtired or sleepless teenager is likely to have more difficulty regulating their emotions.
One of the biggest reasons teenagers have trouble sleeping is because they use electronic devices near bedtime. Set a rule that says no electronics are present within an hour of bedtime, and don’t let your teenager sleep in the room with a smartphone.
Exercise is a natural mood 
enhancer, and it can make a significant contribution to reducing mood swings. Encourage your teenager to exercise for at least 20 minutes every day. Not only will exercise reduce stress, but it will also release endorphins, a chemical known to help improve mood.
A healthy diet is another way teenagers can naturally fight mood swings. Eating breakfast, reducing caffeine, and reducing sugar are just a few of the things that can help teenagers feel at their best. Talk to your teen about the importance of a balanced diet and provide healthy snacks and meals.
Mood swings can sometimes be a sign of a bigger problem for teenagers. If your teenager can’t keep friends because her mood swings are so violent, or she can’t get through the school day without yelling at people, she may have underlying mental health problems.
Depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety disorders are just some of the mental health problems that often occur during adolescence. Mental health problems are very treatable, so it is crucial to seek professional help. Talk to your child’s pediatrician, or talk to a trained counsellor about any concerns you may have.
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