Mood disorders

What is a Mood Disorder?
A mood disorder is a mental health class that health professionals use to broadly describe all types of depression and bipolar disorders. If you have a mood disorder, your general emotional state is distorted or inconsistent with your circumstances—you may be extremely sad (depression), excessively happy (mania), or alternate between the two.

Mood disorders can increase your risk of heart disease and diabetes, and interfere with your ability to function at work and in relationships.

Common Types

• Major Depressive Disorder: Prolonged and persistent periods of extreme sadness.
• Bipolar Disorder: Alternating periods of depression and mania (extreme highs).
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression associated with fewer hours of daylight (winter months).
• Cyclothymic Disorder: A milder form of bipolar disorder.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Mood changes and irritability that occur during the premenstrual phase.

Symptoms

[Image of mood disorder symptoms chart]

Symptoms depend on the specific type of disorder, but they generally fall into two categories: Depressive symptoms and Manic symptoms.

1. Depressive Symptoms

• Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time.
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
• Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little).
• Sleeping too much or insomnia.
• Chronic fatigue or lack of energy.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

2. Manic Symptoms (Bipolar)

• Feeling extremely energized or elated.
• Rapid speech or movement.
• Agitation or irritability.
• Risk-taking behavior (spending money, reckless driving).
• Racing thoughts.
• Insomnia without feeling tired.

⚠️ EMERGENCY WARNING
If you or a loved one has thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek emergency help immediately. Call your local emergency number or a suicide prevention hotline.

Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause is unknown, but several factors contribute:

• Biological Factors: Changes in brain structure and function. The amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (which control emotion) may function differently.
• Genetics: Mood disorders tend to run in families.
• Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
• Life Events: Trauma, high stress, or major life changes (death of a loved one, divorce) can trigger disorders.

Diagnosis

Doctors generally perform a physical exam to rule out other physiological causes (like thyroid problems). If no physical cause is found, a psychiatrist will evaluate you using criteria from the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

Treatment

Mood disorders are treatable. A combination of medication and therapy is often most effective.

1. Medications

• Antidepressants: To treat depression and anxiety (e.g., SSRIs).
• Mood Stabilizers: Used primarily for bipolar disorder to prevent highs and lows (e.g., Lithium).
• Antipsychotics: Sometimes used for mania or severe depression.

2. Psychotherapy

Also called "talk therapy." Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps patients change negative thought patterns. Interpersonal Therapy focuses on relationships with others.

3. Brain Stimulation Therapies

For severe cases that do not respond to medication, Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) or TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) may be used.

Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.