Mood disorder - Optimal Hormone Wellness Center

What is a mood disorder?

A mood disorder is a condition that causes severe, persistent changes in mood and emotions, which can negatively affect someone's ability to function in daily life. Mood disorders are a category of mental illnesses that have biological and environmental causes.

The two main types of mood disorders are:

• Depressive disorders: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. Examples are major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.
• Bipolar disorders: Characterized by extreme highs (mania) and lows. Examples are bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder.

What are the symptoms of mood disorders?

Some common symptoms of mood disorders include:

• Feelings of intense sadness or despair
• Irritability and anger
• Loss of interest in normal activities
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide

For bipolar disorder specifically, symptoms of mania may include increased energy, less need for sleep, racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, and feeling “high.”

What causes mood disorders?

Mood disorders develop due to a complex mix of:

• Genetics and biology: Mood disorders tend to run in families, suggesting inherited genetic vulnerabilities. Brain chemistry differences, hormones, and medical illnesses can also contribute.
• Environmental factors: Stress, trauma, grief, medical illnesses, substance abuse, some medications, social isolation, and major life changes may trigger mood episodes.

How are mood disorders treated?

Today mood disorders are highly treatable with professional help. Common treatment options include:

• Medications: Such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications that directly improve brain chemistry.
• Psychotherapy: Especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) work to change negative thought and behavior patterns.
• Self-care and lifestyle changes: Getting good sleep, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness practices, social connection, and coping skills training can support treatment and mental health.

If you think you may be struggling with a mood disorder, consider making an appointment at Optimal Hormone Wellness Center Mental Health Clinic! Our compassionate doctors provide cutting edge testing to check your hormone and neurotransmitter levels, and create tailored treatment plans to help you regain balance, joy, and thriving in your life!