Sickle Cell and Mood Swings

There are the days I feel alive and the days I don’t. Sometimes in a day, I could be both. Unfortunately, not everyone can tolerate the mood swings of others.

What are mood swings?

I choose to describe mood swings as sudden changes in attitude whether happy, sad, etc. This can manifest itself through anxiety, depression, etc. People living with sickle cell may have a thousand problems and still be living life to the fullest. But just like any human, we get overwhelmed sometimes and it shows in our moods most of the time.

Take for instance that I choose to go to a party, rather than sit at home and cry over my liver problems or whatever problems I may have. While partying, reality hits me and I go from my happy mood to a sad state. It happens and that is okay. That doesn’t make you bad because it’s a human thing. Unfortunately, not many get this and you get accused of faking or pretending sometimes.

I know a ton of people with mood swings that don’t have sickle cell. My sickle cell struggles make it easier for me to understand their plight. The people who are closest to me know this and some of them have mood swings of their own.

There are certain things that make the mentality of a warrior (when it comes to others) warm and delightful. Like understanding others when they complain about being broke because you’ve been there a few times. Unfortunately, we mostly do not receive most of the love we give freely to other people. How many people will understand when you have a mood swing?

Many things can cause mood swings

Whether you are experiencing a significant change in life, stressed or overwhelmed, unable to sleep, unable to eat well, kindly see your trusted doctor. There are medications that could help. Sometimes, just talking to someone about your problems can help too.

Women tend to be more prone to hormonal and behavioral shifts. Especially during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. While sickle cell can cause mood swings, it is not the only cause of mood swings. If for any reason your mood swing is from a mental health condition, you could also try some therapy.

Mood swings may never leave completely. I’m not sure if it has a cure but I can assure you that you are not alone in this. Mood swings affect a wider range of people than you think.

When next your mood fluctuates, try not to beat yourself about it too much. Especially if at the end you lose friends or family. Like I said, it’s very unfortunate that not a lot of people understand mood swings, nor will they accept it, but know that you are not alone and it is not your fault.

Mood swings and sickle cell

Sickle cell patients may encounter some psychological problems such as, anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, among others. This is due to the fact that they experience a lot of pain, neglect, being misunderstood, stigma, financial problems and more health issues. This however does not stop warriors from trying to reach their dreams and aspirations.

Life hits us all below the belt sometimes and we become so overwhelmed that it affects our mood. I’ve gotten to the point where I believe that mental health in sickle cell needs to be taken as seriously as crises. So many of us are battling with psychological problems and we don't even know yet. This only goes on to prove that sickle cell really sucks and warriors need to be applauded.

My wishes for you

Dear warrior, I am so sorry for all you go through and wish there was a way I could make it all go away and free you from sickle cell. But I can’t. If you ever felt like you are alone and need a friend, I am here for you. Sickle-cell.com is here for you and so are other warriors. You are not alone.