Irritability refers to a heightened sensitivity that leads to feelings of annoyance, frustration, or anger that are disproportionate to the situation. It is not simply a “bad mood,” but rather a state of lowered tolerance for stressors, often resulting in quickness to snap, impatience, or difficulty regulating emotional responses. Irritability can occur as a normal reaction to fatigue, stress, or physical discomfort, but it is also a common symptom in many psychological conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and PTSD. Because it can strain relationships and interfere with daily functioning, irritability is considered an important clinical feature that may signal underlying distress or mental health challenges.
