Defining Mood disorders
It is completely normal for individuals to experience mood changes, especially in relation external stimuli (e.g. reactions to situations and/ or experiences). A mood disorder is a mental health condition that fundamentally affects an individual’s emotional state. According to the Mayo Clinic “if you have a mood disorder, your general emotional state or mood is distorted or inconsistent with your circumstances and interferes with your ability to function.” While there is no explicit scientific reason as to what causes an individual to develop a mood disorder, there are certain risk factors that have been identified as increasing one’s susceptibility. The Cleveland Clinic explains that various genetic, biological, environmental and other factors have been associated with mood disorders, some of which include: family history, previous diagnosis of mood disorder, trauma, stress or major life changes, physical illness, use of certain medications, and brain structure. The exact combination and severity of symptoms will vary from person to person, as each individual is unique.
SYMPTOMS
Not all individuals with a mood disorder will exhibit overt symptoms. Further, depending on the individual, it is not uncommon for the effects of a mood disorder to be easily ignored. Although each type of mood disorder has its own distinct characteristics, Johns Hopkins Medicine provides the following examples of general symptoms of mood disorders:
An ongoing sad, empty or anxious mood
Irritability, aggression or hostility
Changes in sleep patterns
Changes in appetite or weight
Difficulty concentrating
The symptoms of a mood disorder will likely interfere with one’s ability to function optimally in his or her daily life.
TYPES OF MOOD DISORDERS
There are several different types of mood disorders, each with distinct characteristics. Johns Hopkins Medicine list the following examples of different types of mood disorders:
Major depression: characterized by persistent and prolonged periods of extreme sadness
Dysthymia (chronic depression): characterized by a chronic, low-grade depressed or irritable mood lasting for a minimum of two years
Bipolar disorder: characterized by periods of depression alternating with periods of mania (elevated mood)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: characterized by mood changes and irritability that present during the premenstrual phase of a female’s menstrual cycle
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder: characterized by persistent and severe irritability (primarily in children) that typically includes frequent temper outbursts that are inconsistent with the child’s developmental age
Mood disorders are most commonly treated with medication and/ or psychotherapy.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.