8. Mood Swings and Mental Health: The Emotional Whirlwind
Silent thyroiditis can have a profound effect on your mental health. Experiencing frequent and unexplained mood swings could be a sign that your thyroid is malfunctioning. The link between your thyroid and your mental health lies in the thyroid hormone’s influence on your brain and mood regulation.
During the hyperthyroid phase, the excess thyroid hormone can cause feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or irritability. You might have trouble focusing, or your thoughts might be racing, similar to the symptoms of an anxiety disorder.
Conversely, during the hypothyroid phase, the reduced thyroid hormone can lead to feelings of depression, sadness, or lack of motivation. You might find yourself feeling unusually down, fatigued, or uninterested in activities you used to enjoy. (8)
