How Hormonal Changes Affect Mood: A Doctor’s Explanation
By an Endocrinologist at MedUnited Hospitals
Hormones play a far greater role in our emotional well-being than most people realize. I, Dr. Praveen Rao Shambukari, being an endocrinologist, often meet patients who come to me saying, “Doctor, I feel anxious, irritable, low, or unlike myself-and I don’t know why.”
Very often, the answer lies in hormonal imbalance.
In this article, I want to explain-clearly and scientifically-how hormonal changes affect mood, when to seek help and how timely medical care can restore both emotional and physical balance.
Understanding Hormones and Mood Regulation
Hormones are chemical messengers released into the bloodstream that regulate vital body functions-including mood, sleep, energy levels, appetite and stress response.
Key hormones that directly influence mood include:
- Estrogen & Progesterone – emotional stability, calmness
- Thyroid hormones (T3, T4) – energy, motivation, mental clarity
- Cortisol – stress response
- Insulin – blood sugar balance, irritability control
- Testosterone – confidence, vitality
- Serotonin & Dopamine (neuro-hormonal balance) – happiness and emotional regulation
Even minor fluctuations can significantly affect how a person feels mentally and emotionally.
Common Hormonal Conditions That Impact Mood
Thyroid Disorders
An underactive or overactive thyroid is one of the most common but under-diagnosed causes of mood changes.
- Hypothyroidism may cause:
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Low motivation
- Hyperthyroidism may lead to:
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbances
Early diagnosis through thyroid function tests can prevent long-term emotional distress.
Hormonal Changes in Women
Women experience hormonal shifts during:
- Puberty
- Menstrual cycles
- Pregnancy
- Post-partum period
- Perimenopause & menopause
Conditions like PCOS, PMS and menopause-related estrogen decline are strongly linked with:
- Mood swings
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Depressive symptoms
These are medical conditions, not “normal weakness,” and deserve proper evaluation.
Stress and Cortisol Imbalance
Chronic stress keeps cortisol levels high, which can:
- Disrupt sleep
- Increase anxiety
- Cause emotional burnout
- Affect immunity and metabolism
Long-term cortisol imbalance may even mimic symptoms of depression or panic disorders.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations & Diabetes
Sudden changes in blood glucose can cause:
- Irritability
- Confusion
- Mood instability
- Fatigue
This is commonly seen in people with undiagnosed diabetes or insulin resistance.
Hormonal Changes in Men
Low testosterone levels in men may result in:
- Low mood
- Reduced confidence
- Fatigue
- Poor concentration
This condition is more common than assumed and is treatable with proper medical care.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
You should seek medical advice if mood changes:
- Persist for more than a few weeks
- Affect daily life or relationships
- Are associated with fatigue, weight changes, sleep problems, or menstrual irregularities
A hormonal evaluation can often identify the root cause.
How We Approach This at MedUnited Hospitals
At MedUnited Hospitals, we take a holistic, evidence-based approach to hormonal and emotional health.
Our evaluation includes:
- Detailed clinical assessment
- Hormonal blood tests
- Thyroid profile
- Metabolic screening
- Lifestyle and stress evaluation
Treatment is personalized and may include:
- Hormone correction
- Medical therapy
- Lifestyle guidance
- Nutritional and stress-management advice
Why Choose MedUnited Hospitals?
- Best Endocrinologist in Amalapuram
- Trusted care at the best private hospital in Amalapuram & Palakollu
- Advanced diagnostics under one roof
- Patient-centric, ethical medical care
A Doctor’s Final Note
Mood changes are not “just in the mind.”
They are often the body’s way of signaling an internal imbalance.
With the right diagnosis and treatment, emotional well-being can be restored-safely and effectively.
If you or your loved ones are experiencing unexplained mood changes, we are here to help.
Consult our Endocrinology team at MedUnited Hospitals, Amalapuram & Palakollu
Your health-physical and emotional-is our priority.
