People feel irritable when their needs are not met, which has to do with our psychological and physiological mechanisms. According to psychologist Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, human beings have multiple levels of needs, from basic physiological needs to safety needs to socialization, respect, and self-actualization. When any of these needs are not met, people may feel anxious, depressed, or irritable.
Physiological responses: When basic needs such as hunger, thirst, or sleep are neglected, the body sends signals to get our attention. These signals may manifest themselves in the form of agitation or discomfort, forcing us to meet these basic needs.
Mood regulation: When our emotional needs, such as love, belonging, or respect, are neglected, our emotional state may be affected. This can lead to anxiety and irritability as we seek the satisfaction of these needs to maintain emotional balance.
Psychological stress: We may feel frustrated and irritated when we encounter obstacles in our pursuit of achievement, self-identity, and self-actualization. This pressure can stem from the gap between one's goals and reality.
Social and cultural factors: The social and cultural environment in which we live also has an impact on our needs and expectations. When these societal expectations are not met, it can lead to dissatisfaction and irritability.
Cognitive imbalance: Cognitive imbalances can occur when our worldview and belief system are challenged, or when our experiences don't meet our expectations. This imbalance needs to be addressed by adjusting our behaviors or beliefs, and irritability can arise in the process.
When irritable, it is important to identify and understand the reasons behind these feelings and take appropriate action to meet those unmet needs. This may include taking breaks, communicating with others, setting realistic goals, or seeking professional help.