What is irritability?

Irritability involves feelings of:

• anger
• restlessness
• frustration
• impatience
• quick annoyance

These can be triggered by small things.

People with irritability may react with anger to slight frustrations. They have a short temper and may snap at people.

Symptoms linked to irritability may include:

• moodiness — feeling annoyed and grumpy
• increased sensitivity to sensory stimuli such as smells and sounds
• aggression
• agitation
• frustration

Irritability can be a symptom of a mental health condition such as:

• depression
• anxiety
• bipolar disorder

It can also be caused by some physical problems.

What causes irritability?

Irritability can be caused by:

• hunger
• fatigue
• drug and alcohol use
• mental and physical health conditions

Physical health conditions that can lead to irritability include:

• dementia
• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• sleep problems
• thyroid problems (overactive thyroid, underactive thyroid)
• traumatic brain injury
• chronic pain
• substance withdrawal from caffeine, cannabis, tobacco etc.

Mental health conditions that can cause irritability include:

• depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• acute stress disorder
• oppositional defiant disorder
• antisocial personality disorder
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Many children are irritable at times. But if your child is irritable all the time or much more frequently than the other children, it may be a sign of a mental health problem.

When should I see my doctor?

If you or someone close to you is in crisis, or at immediate risk of harm, call triple zero (000). To talk to someone now call Lifeline13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636.

It's common to feel irritable from time to time. If you feel unusually irritable or are constantly irritable or on edge, it is important to talk to your doctor.

They will be able to assess if your feelings are part of a mental health condition or a symptom of an underlying physical condition.

How is irritability treated?

If there is an underlying health condition causing your irritability, your doctor will recommend treatment that is relevant to your diagnosis.

If your irritability is linked to a mental health condition, they may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. They may recommend psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or medicines, or both.

There are also some self-help strategies you can try to reduce your feeling of irritability.

What self-help strategies can I use to reduce irritability?

Here are some tips you can try.

• Reduce stimulant use such as coffee, tea, tobacco, drugs.
• Reduce alcohol use.
• Get enough sleep — practise good sleep hygiene to give yourself the best chance of good quality sleep.
• Identify your triggers or the reason for your irritability so you can manage it.
• Keep a diary and rate your daily levels of anxiety and irritability and see if you notice a pattern. The Black Dog Institute has a daily mood chart you can use.
• Practise relaxation techniques or mindfulness to see if they help improve your mood.

Read about good mental health.

You could also try these practical options:

• Take a walk, go for a swim or try another type of physical activity such as yoga or Pilates.
• Listen to music or watch television.
• Read a book.
• Take a relaxing bath or pamper yourself for an hour.
• Do something creative such as painting or making something.

Medicines

If you have an underlying condition, such as anxiety or depression, that is causing your irritability, your doctor may prescribe a medicine.

Your doctor will explain:

• how to take your medicine
• the risks and benefits of your medicine
• how often you need check-ups while on the medicine

What are the complications of irritability?

If not treated, long-term feelings of irritability can lead to depression or anxiety.

Long term irritability and feeling on edge can also have an impact on your social life. You might find it harder to maintain relationships with family and friends.

There is a higher chance of suicidal thoughts in teenagers who struggle with long-term irritability.

Can irritability be prevented?

Irritability is a normal feeling and can't be prevented but may be managed.

Resources and support

If you need help, talking to your doctor is a good place to start. If you'd like to find out more or talk to someone else, here are some organisations that can help:

• MindSpot Clinic helps those suffering from anxiety or depression. Call 1800 61 44 34.
• Beyond Blue is for anyone feeling depressed or anxious. Call 1300 22 4636 or chat online.
• Black Dog Institute assists people affected by depression and extreme mood swings with online help and support groups.
• Lifeline is for anyone experiencing a crisis or thinking about suicide. Call 13 11 14 or chat online.
• Suicide Call Back Service provides online counselling to people affected by or thinking of suicide. Call 1300 659 467.

Languages other than English

These websites offer translated information:

• SANE offers a range of support services including a free translating and interpreting service available on 131 450.
• Transcultural Mental Health Centre has many resources about wellbeing and mental health in different languages.

Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples

This information has been developed for Indigenous communities:

• Yarn Safe has mental health and wellbeing information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Wellmob has mental health information and resources Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.