Mood disorders are a category of mental health issues that affect a person's everyday emotional state. The most common mood disorders are depression, bipolar disorder, and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
Depression involves feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest that last for at least two weeks. Symptoms may include:
- Loss of energy and motivation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Depression can range from mild to severe. It often comes and goes over a person's lifetime. Triggers can include major life changes, trauma, genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, and use of certain medications.
Bipolar disorder, formerly called manic depression, causes extreme shifts in mood and energy levels. A person with bipolar disorder cycles between emotional "highs" (mania) and "lows" (depression). Their mood may swing from overly joyful and energized to extremely sad and hopeless. Each cycle can last from a few days to months at a time.
- The manic phase includes euphoric or irritable mood, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, and risky decision making.
- The depressive phase involves the symptoms of major depression listed above.
Persistent depressive disorder, or dysthymia, is a mild but chronic form of depression. A person with this disorder feels persistently sad or "down in the dumps" most days for at least two years (for adults). It differs from major depression which is more episodic and severe.
Effective treatments for mood disorders include medication, psychotherapy, light therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a common medication prescribed. Talk therapy helps a person better cope with their condition. Regular exercise, proper sleep, healthy diet, stress management, and meaningful social connections can also make a significant difference.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mood disorder, reach out to a doctor or mental health professional. With proper treatment, most people with depression or bipolar lead full, productive lives. You deserve to feel mentally and emotionally well - don't hesitate to get the support you need. Life can be bright again.
For compassionate care and cutting-edge treatment options, consider Vitality Health Center. Our experienced psychiatrists and therapists individualize treatment plans to meet each patient's unique needs. We offer psychiatric assessment, medication management, counseling, light therapy, TMS, and IV ketamine therapy. Let us help you reclaim your mental health and start feeling like yourself again. There is hope - make the call.