When it comes to understanding our mental health, understanding the different types of mood disorders is a key component. Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, involve disturbances in one’s emotional state—ranging from feeling overly happy and elated to feeling severely depressed. These disorders can have a significant impact on a person’s life and can cause a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms.
With this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of mood disorders, their definitions, and the treatment options available. We’ll also look at the impact of mood disorders on a person’s daily life and how to best manage and cope with these issues. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of mood disorders, their effects, and the best ways to manage them.
What are Mood Disorders?
Mood disorders are mental illnesses that are characterized by an abnormal mood and affective state. Mood refers to your feelings or emotions, while disorders are disorders that cause a significant period of distress. This can include feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability. Some common mood disorders include major depressive disorder, dysthymia, cyclothymia, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Dysthymia is the most common type of mood disorder. It’s characterized by low mood that lasts for at least 2 years and occurs nearly every day. Depression may feel worse, but dysthymia is much more common. Mood disorders are fairly common—affecting about 7% of adults at some point in their life. It’s likely that many cases of mood disorders go undiagnosed as they are often not reported.
Types of Mood Disorders
Major depressive disorder (MDD): A mood disorder characterized by extreme feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and lethargy. Those who experience MDD may also exhibit a lack of interest in activities they once enjoyed and a change in appetite or sleep patterns.
Dysthymia: A mild, long-term mood disorder characterized by low energy and a consistently negative outlook.
Cyclothymia: A mild, long-term mood disorder characterized by frequent shifts between depressive and manic episodes.
Bipolar disorder: A mood disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood and energy, along with impulsive behaviour.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): A mood disorder that leads to symptoms of depression that occur during certain times of the year, often winter months.
Symptoms of Mood Disorders
When experiencing a mood disorder, you may notice that you’re experiencing certain symptoms. This can include having recurring feelings of sadness and hopelessness, experiencing anxiety or irritability, and a change in daily habits. You may find that you’re loosing interest in activities that used to bring you joy and have a change in sleep patterns and appetite. Mood disorders can cause extreme mood swings that go beyond what is considered normal.
Causes of Mood Disorders
The exact cause of mood disorders is not fully understood. However, it’s believed that a combination of genetics, biological factors, and environmental pressures contribute to the development of these conditions. While depression is believed to be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, the exact cause is unknown. While the exact cause is not known, there are certain risk factors that may increase your likelihood of developing a mood disorder. These include genetics, biopsychosocial factors, family history, abuse, and traumatic events.
Diagnosis of Mood Disorders
Before you begin treatment, you’ll likely have a psychological assessment to determine the type of mood disorder you have. This will include a physical exam and a discussion about your medical history and current health status. You may also have to complete a few psychological tests to assess your mental health. One of the most common assessment tools is the Mood Disorder Questionnaire. A doctor may also use a diagnostic criteria to determine your diagnosis. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) is often used to make a diagnosis.
Summary
Mood disorders are mental illnesses that are characterized by an abnormal mood and affective state. These include feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability. Some common mood disorders include major depressive disorder, dysthymia, cyclothymia, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder. Mood disorders can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, biopsychosocial factors, family history, abuse, and traumatic events. There are many different types of mood disorders, each with their own set of symptoms. To make a diagnosis, a doctor will likely use an assessment tool to determine your diagnosis.