[22F] Experiencing prolonged irritability and stress

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female reports a 4-year history of irritability and stress, with a noted increase in intensity over the past 3 weeks. The patient describes her irritability as being easily annoyed, particularly triggered by familial interactions such as her mother shouting or her brother engaging in behaviors she perceives as time-wasting. The patient acknowledges that there are variations in her irritability, sometimes related to the time of day, but does not provide specific patterns. She has not indicated any significant impact on her relationships or daily interactions due to these symptoms.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, it seems like you might be experiencing symptoms related to stress and possibly a mood disorder, such as depression or anxiety. These conditions can cause feelings of irritability, sudden crying, and feelings of being easily annoyed.

  • Stress: This is a normal physiological response to challenges or demands, but chronic stress can have negative effects on your mental and physical health. It can cause symptoms like irritability, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings.

    • Treatment often involves stress management techniques such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
  • Depression: This is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities. It can also cause physical symptoms.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy (talk therapy), medications, or a combination of both.
  • Anxiety: This is a normal response to stress, but when feelings of anxiety are excessive, persistent, or interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

    • Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, medications, or both.

Please remember that this is not a definitive diagnosis. Only a healthcare professional can provide that.

What you can do

  1. Seek professional help: If you're feeling overwhelmed by your emotions, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

  2. Practice stress management techniques: This can include things like regular exercise, adequate sleep, a healthy diet, and relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation.

  3. Stay connected: Reach out to trusted friends or family members. They can provide emotional support and help you navigate through this difficult time.

  4. Limit alcohol and avoid drugs: These can increase feelings of anxiety and depression and make it harder for you to cope with stress.

What you should look out for

If you're feeling suicidal or thinking of hurting yourself, seek help immediately. You can reach out to a mental health professional or trusted person in your life.

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10 mo ago

People Also Ask


What are some common symptoms of stress and how can they affect daily life?

Common symptoms of stress include irritability, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can affect daily life by impacting work performance, relationships, and overall well-being.


How can mood disorders like depression or anxiety manifest in young adults?

In young adults, mood disorders like depression or anxiety can manifest as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, excessive worry, irritability, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.


What are effective stress management techniques that can be practiced at home?

Effective stress management techniques include regular physical exercise, practicing mindfulness or meditation, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and engaging in relaxation exercises like deep breathing or yoga.


When should someone seek professional help for irritability and stress?

Someone should seek professional help for irritability and stress if these feelings are overwhelming, persistent, or interfere with daily life, or if there are thoughts of self-harm or suicide. A healthcare provider can offer a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.


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