Understanding the Basics of Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are a category of illnesses that describe a serious change in mood. Illness under the umbrella of mood disorders include major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and substance-induced mood disorder. More than 20 million American adults, or about 9.5% of the U.S population, have a mood disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
The term mood describes an individual’s emotional state. Thus, mood disorders are defined by the presence of severe changes in mood, generally involving either mania (elation) or depression. Both of these moods, while opposites on the emotional scale, are detrimental to the individual’s functioning and put them at higher risk of physical illness, not to mention social and vocational problems.
Types of Mood Disorders
There are several types of mood disorders, each presenting a unique set of symptoms that affect an individual’s emotional state differently. The most common mood disorders include:
- Major depressive disorder: this is categorized by a persistent and invasive low mood that drastically affects the individual’s ability to function in their everyday lives. Common symptoms include a loss of interest or pleasure in activities, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide.
- Bipolar disorder: an individual with this disorder experiences episodes of depression as well as episodes of mania – extreme high energy or mood.
- Substance-induced mood disorder: this disorder results from the effects of drugs or alcohol-or from withdrawal from these substances.
- Dysthymia: a chronic type of depression where a person’s moods are regularly low. However, symptoms are not as severe as with major depression.
- Cyclothymic disorder: a milder type of bipolar disorder. Individuals with cyclothymic disorder experience chronic fluctuating moods over at least two years, involving periods of hypomania (a mild to moderate level of mania) and periods of depressive symptoms, with very short periods (no more than two months) of normal mood in between.
Causes of Mood Disorders
Like most mental health conditions, mood disorders are thought to be caused by a combination of biological, environmental, and genetic factors. It is believed that individuals with certain genetic traits are more likely to develop a mood disorder, especially if they encounter certain environmental triggers like stress or trauma. An imbalance in brain chemicals that regulate mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, also plays a crucial role in mood disorders.
Treatment of Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are treatable. The first step in treatment is often identifying that a problem exists and seeking help. Unfortunately, many people do not recognize that their symptoms are due to a treatable illness. Depending on the type and severity of the mood disorder, various treatment options are available.
These treatments include medication, psychotherapy (talk therapy), or a combination of both. Mood stabilizers, such as lithium for bipolar disorder, and antidepressants are the most prescribed medications. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, can help individuals better understand their illness, and develop strategies for coping with the stressors that can lead to depressive episodes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding mood disorders involves acknowledging the severity of the major shifts in mood they encompass, identifying the main types of mood disorders and their unique symptoms, recognizing the potential causes and risk factors, and knowing the treatment options available. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, individuals with mood disorders can live stable, productive lives. It is crucial for anyone suspecting they have a mood disorder to seek professional help promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can mood disorders be cured?
While there is no ‘cure’ for mood disorders, they are highly treatable. With a good treatment plan, many people experience a significant reduction in symptoms and an improved quality of life.
2. Are mood disorders hereditary?
Yes, mood disorders tend to run in families. However, not everyone with a family history of these disorders will develop them. Environmental factors also play a crucial role.
3. Are mood disorders the same as mood swings?
No, mood swings are normal ups and downs in mood that everyone experiences from time to time. Mood disorders, on the other hand, cause severe changes in mood that last for long periods and interfere with normal day-to-day functioning.
4. Can mood disorders be prevented?
While it’s not possible to prevent these disorders, early identification and treatment can mitigate the severity of symptoms, decrease the duration of the disorder, and reduce the chances of a recurrence. Regular therapy sessions, medication, and promoting a healthy lifestyle can all play a part in managing these conditions.
