Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that significantly impact a person's emotional state and ability to function in daily life. The two main types of mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder.
Depression involves feeling sad, hopeless, or irritable for long periods of time. Symptoms often include:
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite and sleep habits
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Depression can range from mild to severe. Major depression interferes significantly with one's ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy life. Dysthymic disorder involves milder but more chronic symptoms.
Bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings between emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). Manic episodes may include:
- Feeling elated, energetic, or irritable
- Decreased need for sleep
- Racing thoughts and rapid speech
- Poor decision making and risk taking
The shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels can damage relationships and make it hard to complete school or hold a job.
Causes of mood disorders vary but often involve brain chemistry imbalances, genetics, major life changes, trauma, or stress. Effective treatments typically include some combination of medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, social support, light therapy, or other interventions.
With appropriate treatment, many people with mood disorders can manage their symptoms, function normally, and enjoy life again. Reach out to a mental health professional right away if you think you may have depression or bipolar disorder. Don't try to tough it out alone. Help is available at Revival Medical Clinic.