List of Most Common Mood disorders
It is not uncommon for individuals to inaccurately use the term mood disorder and personality disorder interchangeably. The primary difference between the two is that mood disorders generally cause periods of emotional highs and/ or lows, and although mood swings are not an uncommon symptom of personality disorders, it is not the main symptom. Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine “is a mental health class that health professionals use to broadly describe all types of depression and bipolar disorders.” The specific types of mood disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) include: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, major depressive disorder, cyclothymic disorder (cyclothymia), disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), and other (e.g. substance/ medication and medically induced mood disorders). Mood disorders severely impact one’s mood and all its related functions.
MOST COMMON MOOD DISORDERS
While there are several different mood disorders listed in the DSM-5, certain mood disorders are more common than others. According to the Cleveland Clinic the most common mood disorders include the following:
Depression (major or clinical depression): characterized by persistent and prolonged periods of extreme sadness, lasting a minimum of two weeks
Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): characterized by a chronic, low-grade depressed and/ or irritable mood lasting for a minimum of two years
Bipolar disorder (manic-depressive disorder): characterized by periods of depression alternating with periods of mania (elevated mood)
Bipolar I disorder: characterized by at least one manic episode that may be preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes
Bipolar II disorder: characterized by at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomania episode, and absent of manic episodes
Cyclothymic disorder (cyclothymia): characterized by fluctuating low-level depressive symptoms along with periods of mild mania (hypomania)
Based on the diagnostic interview data from National Comorbidity Survey Replication, the National Institute of Mental Health estimates approximately 21.4% of adults in the United States experience a mood disorder at some point in their lives. Hence, mood disorders can be considered highly prevalent in America.
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.