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What are Mood Disorders?
Mood disorders are disturbances in a person’s emotional state, leading to pervasive and often debilitating shifts in mood. These disorders encompass a range of conditions, with the two most common types being depression and bipolar disorder. Other mood disorders may involve less extreme mood fluctuations or be triggered by specific situations.
Mood disorders can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, relationships, and overall well-being, and often require therapeutic for effective management and treatment.
Major Depressive Disorder
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a severe and persistent mental health condition marked by a profound and persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, and various emotional and physical symptoms. These symptoms can disrupt daily life and lead to significant distress.
There are different types of depression, such as major depression, seasonal affective disorder, persistent depressive disorder, perinatal depression, and more.
Depression is often caused by a combination of factors, environmental stress or trauma, genetics, and physiological factors.
Major Depressive Disorder Symptoms
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder (also called manic depression or bipolar affective disorder) is characterized by extreme mood swings that fluctuate between episodes of mania and depression. During manic phases, individuals experience heightened energy, impulsivity, and euphoria, often leading to risky behavior and impaired judgment. In contrast, depressive episodes involve persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and other symptoms similar to major depression.
Bipolar Mania Symptoms
Bipolar Depressive Symptoms
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression characterized by recurring episodes of depressive symptoms that typically occur during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are reduced. SAD is thought to be linked to changes in light exposure, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and affect neurotransmitters like serotonin.
Seasonal Affective Disorder Symptoms
Postpartum Depression
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a form of clinical depression that affects some women after childbirth. It typically emerges within the first few weeks to months following delivery, although it can develop later.
Postpartum Depression Symptoms
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
Typically diagnosed in children and adolescents, DMDD involves persistent irritability and anger between outbursts. The disorder provides a diagnostic category for children who exhibit chronic irritability and frequent, severe temper tantrums but do not fit the criteria for other mood disorders.
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Symptoms
Frequent Temper Outbursts
Persistent irritability or angry mood most of the day, nearly every day
Chronic and persistent temper outbursts for at least 12 months and occur in at least two settings (e.g., home, school, with peers)
No manic or hypomanic episodes
Shows signs of symptoms before the age of 10
Other Mood Disorders
There are other mood disorders including cyclothymia, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Consult with your provider to determine a correct diagnosis.
How are mood disorders diagnosed?
How are mood disorders treated?
Psychologists can provide various therapy services such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy. Your doctor will work with you to see which treatment is the best for you.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This therapy focuses on helping individuals recognize unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. CBT involves techniques where negative thought patterns are replaced with more balanced ones. This therapy has been well-studied and is typically used by professionals.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
This is a comprehensive and evidence-based psychotherapy designed to help individuals with emotional regulation difficulties. It focuses on teaching individuals how to manage intense emotions and reduce self-destructive behaviors. DBT emphasizes four key skill sets: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
This therapy focuses on improving relationships and social functioning to alleviate emotional distress and mental health issues. IPT explores communication patterns, role expectations, and conflict resolution skills.
Individuals with mood disorders are highly encouraged to seek professional help. In addition to therapy, individuals may benefit from:
To request an appointment with a provider, fill out this form.
Resources for Mood Disorder
Mood Disorders (Mental Health America)
Overview of Mood Disorders (Johns Hopkins Medicine)
Free 10 minute phone consultations are available with select providers. Alternatively, if after trying a psychologist, it isn’t the right fit, we will help you find someone who is.
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“When a problem comes along, study it until you are completely knowledgeable. Then find that weak spot, break the problem apart, and the rest will be easy.”
– Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993), American Author
We provide professional mental health care consultations, assessments, and therapies using cutting edge techniques applied by only the most experienced therapists. You deserve the highest quality of care possible!
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