Mood disorders are a category of mental health disorders that cause problems in how someone regulates emotions and moods, and often interfere with daily life and functioning.
Key terms to know:
- Mood disorders
- Mental health
- Emotions
- Daily functioning
Mood disorders are more complex than just being "happy" or "sad." Rather, mood disorders involve:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or elation that are disproportionate to life circumstances. For example, intense sadness that doesn't lift or mania that exaggerates positive events.
- Physical and cognitive problems like issues with appetite, sleep, energy, memory, focus, and executive function. As the saying goes, "the mind and body are connected."
- Chronic irritability or anger, even over minor things. Mood disorders amplify emotions.
- Trouble completing daily activities like self-care, work, relationships, etc. Functioning is often impaired.
- Lasting for longer time periods, like weeks to months. Mood episodes in disorders are more persistent whereas in typical individuals, these emotions are transient and temporary.
The two overarching categories are:
- Depressive disorders: Major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), bipolar and related disorders with depressive features.
- Bipolar and related disorders: Bipolar I, bipolar II, cyclothymia, plus episodes of mania or hypomania interspersed with depression.
Mood disorders are common, affecting one in five U.S. adults annually. Fortunately, with evidence-based treatment such as medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and support, the prognosis is good for regulating moods and regaining functioning. Early intervention can help avoid complications like suicide risk, job loss, relationship issues, etc.
If you wonder whether you or a loved one may have a mood disorder, seek professional assessment to get help starting the recovery journey. With support and time, you can start feeling better soon!