What does it mean to feel irritable frequently, and what should be done about it?

Nov 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, persistent irritability may be caused by sleep disorders, nutritional imbalances, mild anxiety, depressive mood disorders, or neurasthenia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, medication, and other treatments under a doctor's guidance. Maintain a light diet in daily life and consume more mood-soothing foods such as bananas and spinach.

Generally, persistent irritability may be caused by factors such as sleep disorders, nutritional imbalances, mild anxiety, depressive mood disorders, or neurasthenia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through lifestyle adjustments, medication, and other methods under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Sleep disorders: Long-term staying up late or difficulty falling asleep prevents the brain from fully resting, leading to overexcited nerves and irritability. Go to bed at 10:30 PM every night, turn off electronic devices one hour before bedtime, soak feet in warm water for 10 minutes, and drink half a cup of warm milk to aid sleep, ensuring 7–8 hours of sleep daily.

2. Nutritional imbalance: Picky eating can lead to insufficient intake of B vitamins and magnesium, affecting neurotransmitter synthesis and triggering irritability. Increase consumption of whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens to replenish nutrients, and take supplements such as vitamin B complex tablets, oryzanol tablets, or mecobalamin tablets as directed by a physician.

3. Mild anxiety state: High stress from work or life may result in continuous worry and restlessness. Engage in yoga or jogging for 20 minutes daily to relieve stress, talk about your concerns with family or friends, and use medications such as Jieyu Anshen Granules, Shugan Jieyu Capsules, or Xiaoyao Pills as prescribed.

4. Depressive mood disorder: Persistent low mood, reduced interest, and accompanying unexplained irritability. Seek professional psychological counseling, learn deep-breathing relaxation techniques, and take medications such as Sertraline Hydrochloride Tablets, Escitalopram Oxalate Tablets, or Citalopram Hydrobromide Tablets as directed by a doctor.

5. Neurasthenia: Prolonged irritability leads to nerve fatigue, manifesting as decreased memory and quick temper. Reduce workload and study intensity, ensure a 30-minute nap daily, avoid coffee and strong tea, and use Anshen Bunao Liquid, Zaoren Anshen Capsules, or Wuling Capsules as prescribed.

Maintain a light diet in daily life and consume more mood-soothing foods such as bananas and spinach. Take walks outdoors on weekends to connect with nature, develop hobbies like gardening or listening to music to divert attention, and gradually alleviate irritability through comprehensive regulation to maintain physical and mental health.

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