Irritability: Causes and Holistic Support

Understanding Irritability: Causes and Holistic Support

Irritability is a state of heightened sensitivity to stimuli, often resulting in feelings of frustration, anger, or annoyance over seemingly minor issues. It’s a common emotional response that everyone experiences from time to time, but persistent irritability can significantly impact one’s quality of life and relationships.

Causes of Irritability

Several factors can contribute to irritability, including:

1. Stress: Chronic stress stemming from work, relationships, or money issues can contribute to irritability. 

2. Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep disrupts mood regulation, increasing the likelihood of irritability. 

3. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during menopause or PMS, can lead to irritability. 

4. Mental Health Conditions: Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD have irritabilty showcase often as a symptom. Also, those who have experienced brain trauma such as concussion. 

5. Substance Use: The effects of withdrawal and usage of certain substances can bring on irritability. 

6. Chronic Pain: Constant aches and pain can lead to frustration and the inability to cope with day to day activities which can lead to irritability.

How Reiki and EFT Tapping Can Help

Reiki and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) Tapping are holistic practices that can support individuals dealing with irritability by promoting relaxation and emotional balance.

Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique where a practitioner channels energy to the recipient to promote balance and healing. Reiki helps reduce stress and enhance relaxation that improves the overall well-being of the individual. Addressing energetic blockages, Reiki helps to alleviate negative emotions and support letting go of that which causes irritability.  

EFT Tapping involves tapping on specific acupressure points on the body while focusing on negative emotions or physical sensations. Tapping helps balance the body's energy system and reduce stress by lowering the cortisol levels; the body's primary stress hormone and thus helping manage irritability. 

Responding to Someone Who Says “Stop Being Irritable”

Calm Lavendar

When someone tells you to “stop being irritable,” it can feel dismissive and invalidating. Here are some ways to respond constructively:

  1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Calmly acknowledge your emotions. For example, “I understand that I’m feeling irritable right now, and I’m working on managing it.”
  2. Communicate Needs: Express what you need in the moment. For instance, “I need a few minutes to myself to calm down.”
  3. Educate: If appropriate, explain that irritability can be a symptom of underlying issues like stress or lack of sleep, and it’s not always easy to control.
  4. Seek Support: Encourage open communication and seek support from friends, family, or professionals to address the root causes of irritability.

By understanding the causes of irritability and exploring holistic practices like Reiki and EFT Tapping, individuals can find effective ways to manage their emotions and improve their overall well-being. If we can support you at Let it go with REIKI via an in-person or long distance session, please reach out today and focus on positive well-being in the days to come.
WIth love, Calah xo