Mood disorders are a category of mental health problems that appear as significant changes in a person’s mood. These changes can interfere with daily life, including relationships, work, and school.
Types of Mood Disorders
The most common types of mood disorders are:
- Major depression: A period of two weeks or longer of persistent depressed mood or loss of interest in activities, along with other symptoms such as changes in sleep, weight, appetite, and concentration.
- Bipolar disorder: Episodes of mania (periods of elevated mood and energy) alternating with episodes of depression.
- Dysthymia: A chronic, low-grade depression that lasts for at least two years.
Symptoms of Mood Disorders
Symptoms of mood disorders can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms include:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, or worthless
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- Having trouble concentrating
- Feeling tired and lacking energy
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feeling guilty or worried
- Having thoughts of death or suicide
Treatment for Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are treatable. Treatment may include a combination of medication and therapy.
- Medication: Antidepressants and mood stabilizers can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms.
- Therapy: Psychotherapy can help people to understand and manage their mood disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are two types of therapy that are often used to treat mood disorders.
Dallas Counseling for Mood Disorders
