Irritability is defined as an excessive sensitivity or impatience to inconvenience, annoyance, or lack of comfort. It refers to a propensity to anger, annoyance, or lack of patience over minor matters. Some key characteristics of irritability include:
- Quick temper over minor frustrations
- Impatience
- Low frustration tolerance
- Feeling "on edge"
- Overreactions to small inconveniences
- Lack of sleep - Insufficient or poor quality sleep reduces one's ability to cope with minor frustrations. When tired, people tend to have less patience.
- Hunger - When blood sugar is low, people are more prone to feeling impatient and annoyed. Eating helps stabilize mood.
- Stress - High external life stress that takes a toll on mental resources can make people more prone to irritation.
- Medical conditions - Thyroid issues, pain conditions, depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder are examples.
- Medication side effects - Some medications list irritability as a potential side effect.
- Get sufficient sleep
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Reduce external life stressors if possible
- Build in brief breaks during the day
- Utilize stress management techniques like mindfulness or yoga
- Avoid overstimulating environments when very irritable
- Confide in trusted friends and ask for support