Live Life Team
Grumpy Old Man Syndrome or Irritable Male Syndrome (IMS) is the equivalent of male menopause, so to speak. IMS is often triggered by chronic or acute stress. It involves an acute reaction to the psychological, hormonal, and physiological changes experienced by all men usually between 40 and 55 years of age. However, in some men, this syndrome may occur in their early 30’s or as late as their 60’s.
Men experiencing IMS are observed to be more emotionally erratic – caring and sweet one day, but overnight appearing to become a monster, being ill-tempered, withdrawn and sullen. A man suffering from IMS can stay inside his room all alone listening to music or playing a video game. When he interacts with other people, he responds angrily even with the least provocation. For him, nothing is done right by anyone. It seems like he is on an emotional rollercoaster. He can go from nice to mean in the blink of an eye. Usually, he is unable to relax, remaining jittery, tense and agitated. He uses drugs, music and alcohol to complement his ups and downs.
Although IMS is related to the degree of vulnerability a sufferer feels toward women, it can be influenced by almost any relationship. Frequently, there is fragility in the sufferer’s consciousness which his anger and irritability try to conceal. IMS sufferers are uncomfortable when they feel that others are more powerful than them. Consequently, IMS often shows up in relationships with siblings in which one is stronger or older; in work environments where there is a need to cope with supervisors; and with domineering parents who refer to the sufferer’s often unpleasant childhood memories.
