Mood disorders are a big group of mental illnesses, that severely impact an individual’s emotions. They cause sadness for long periods, irritation, or extreme mood changes and interfere with the lifestyle as well as relationships of individuals. Knowing what a mood disorder is is an essential step in recognizing symptoms and seeking proper treatment.
So, in this blog, the definition of mood disorders, their types, symptoms, and efficient treatment options will be described.
What Is a Mood Disorder?
A mood disorder is considered a mental state involving the persistent alteration in mood, which impairs regular daily functioning.
Such mood disorders include conditions diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder based on the DSM-5, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
Most people develop these disorders characterized by episodes of depression or mania, or even mania with depression, for that matter.
What Are The Types of Mood Disorders?
There are many types of mood disorders; each has different symptoms and features:
(i) Major Depressive Disorder: This is commonly known as depression. It is marked by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Common symptoms include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts of suicide.
(ii) Bipolar Disorder: Manic depression is characterized by severe mood shifts that include feeling excessively euphoric (manic or hypomanic) and depressed. Manic phases are often succeeded by severe depression.
(iii) Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): This chronic form of depression lasts for at least two years and involves ongoing feelings of sadness or irritability that are less severe than those experienced in major depression.
(iv) Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: This is a disorder in children and adolescents, primarily diagnosed by the occurrence of severe temper outbursts and persistent irritability. However, it can extend to adulthood.
(v) Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: Severe PMS, involves premenstrual impairment, particularly in the social area, with marked depressive symptoms and irritability with associated anxiety.
(vi) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): This type of depression occurs at specific times of the year, typically during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.
What Are The Five Symptoms of a Mood Disorder?
The symptoms of mood disorders can be recognized early. These five are the most common:
- Persistent sadness or low mood: They may feel sad or empty most days.
- Loss of Interest: An obvious decline in interest or pleasure in activities that once were enjoyed.
- Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, resulting in major changes in eating habits.
- Sleeping Disorders: Difficulty in sleeping, or hypersomnia can be symptoms of mood disorders.
- Feeling tired or Low Energy: Constant feelings of tiredness or low energy can impact functioning throughout the day.
Why Am I So Moody?
It is frustrating and confusing to experience sudden mood changes. Mood changes arise from several factors, namely:
- Biological Factors: Hormonal changes, neurotransmitter imbalances, and genetic predisposition can all contribute to the fragility of mood.
- Environmental Stressors: Life events may be trauma, loss, or change that sets off emotional reactions.
- Psychological Factors: Underlying psychiatric illness, including anxiety or personality disorders, can also be a cause for mood variations.
Treatment Options for Mood Disorders
Treatment for mood disorders typically involves a combination of therapy and medication tailored to the individual’s needs:
1. Psychotherapy
Common therapy for managing individuals’ thoughts and behaviours surrounding their mood is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT. The therapy can support coping by offering strategies that help an individual manage his or her symptoms.
2. Medication
Many medications help regulate mood:
- Antidepressants: Generally, most people are prescribed the SSRIs for depression.
- Mood stabilizers: Drugs like lithium or anticonvulsants help level off swings in mood.
- Atypical Antipsychotics: These can be used to treat severe mood disturbances associated with bipolar disorder.
3. Lifestyle Changes
Other healthy lifestyle choices can be beneficial for mental health.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood.
- Balanced Diet: Nutritional Choices and Overall Well-being.
- Adequate Sleep: Establishing good sleep hygiene is crucial for emotional stability.
4. Support Systems
Building a good support network through friends, family, or support groups provides understanding and encouragement while navigating the challenges posed by mood disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about what is a mood disorder:
Q1: What is Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder?
A Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is primarily diagnosed in children, characterized by severe temper outbursts and chronic irritability, which can persist into adulthood.
Q2: What Does It Mean To Have Rapid Mood Changes?
Rapid mood changes involve sudden transitions between various emotional states without obvious reasons, for instance, switching from a happy mood to an extremely sad or angry state without any clear cause.
Q3. How Do I Know If I Have a Mood Disorder?
If the symptoms are persistent: If you have frequent feelings of persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns, or difficulty concentrating, you should consult a mental health professional for evaluation.
Conclusion
It is essential to understand what a mood disorder is to be able to identify the symptoms and seek the appropriate treatment. With proper diagnosis and intervention, people with mood disorders can lead fulfilling lives despite their challenges.
Reaching out for help, whether you or someone close to you is struggling with mood-related issues, can be an important step towards recovery.