The Subtle Signs of Irritability

Irritability is a core symptom of many mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma, among others.

Irritability can look different for everyone—showing up as a unique mixture of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms, depending on the person involved and any stressors. While some symptoms of irritability are obvious, such as agitation, annoyance, and being quick to anger, other symptoms are more subtle and difficult to connect as a symptom of irritability.

Here are five less obvious signs of irritability:

• difficulty concentrating and feeling easily distractible,

• increased negative thoughts,

• oversensitivity to stimuli, such as bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, and tactile sensations such as the feeling of certain fabrics or physical touch,

• bodily tension, commonly observed in the temples, neck, shoulders, and extremities,

• impatience

If these symptoms resonate with you, you may be experiencing irritability, a common and treatable symptom of many mental health concerns. Contact us at The Ridge today to experience relief.

-Dr. Jena Casas, Ph.D.