Mental Health Friday 2023-07-14
On Mental Health Friday, we post, in alphabetical order, one per week, information on mental health disorders. Mental Health Friday is for informational purposes only, and is in no way meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Please do not self diagnose and seek professional help for what ails you.
Link: FindTreatment.gov is an online source of information for persons seeking substance use and/or mental health treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. Territories.
Mood Disorder
By Editorial Team
Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, refer to a group of mental health conditions that involve disturbances in a person’s mood or emotional state. These disorders can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. There are several types of mood disorders, including major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, cyclothymic disorder, and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): MDD, commonly referred to as depression, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Symptoms may vary in severity and duration but generally last for at least two weeks. Individuals with MDD may experience changes in appetite and weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and recurring thoughts of death or suicide.
Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of extreme mood swings that alternate between depressive and manic states. During depressive episodes, individuals experience symptoms similar to those of MDD. However, during manic episodes, they exhibit elevated, euphoric, or irritable moods, increased energy levels, impulsivity, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and engaging in risky behaviors. There are different subtypes of bipolar disorder, such as bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder, which vary in the intensity and duration of mood episodes.
Cyclothymic Disorder: Cyclothymic disorder involves chronic mood instability and fluctuation between periods of hypomanic symptoms (less severe manic episodes) and depressive symptoms. However, these symptoms do not meet the diagnostic criteria for a full manic or depressive episode. The fluctuations in mood are less severe and shorter in duration compared to bipolar disorder.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is characterized by chronic and long-term depression lasting for at least two years. Individuals with dysthymia experience depressive symptoms that may be less severe than those of major depression but are persistent and may fluctuate in intensity over time. Other symptoms may include low self-esteem, poor appetite or overeating, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness.
The exact causes of mood disorders are not fully understood, but they are thought to result from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. These disorders can be influenced by imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Additionally, stressful life events, hormonal changes, family history of mood disorders, and certain medical conditions may contribute to the development of mood disorders.
Diagnosis of mood disorders typically involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional. They will consider the individual’s symptoms, duration, and impact on daily functioning. Treatment for mood disorders often involves a combination of psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy) and medication (such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers). Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management techniques, and support from family and friends, can also be beneficial.
It’s important to note that mood disorders are treatable, and with proper diagnosis and management, many individuals can experience significant improvements in their symptoms and quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder, it is recommended to seek help from a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.