Mood Disorders

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are mental health conditions that impact your feelings and their intensity. Everyone experiences ups and downs now and then, but mood disorders involve emotional changes that are more extreme, long-lasting, and tough to manage without help. These shifts in mood can seriously impact your career, relationships, daily life, and overall sense of well-being.

How can I tell if I have a mood disorder?

You may struggle with a wide range of symptoms. You may feel:

• Persistent sadness or irritability
• Ever-decreasing interest in hobbies, relationships, or daily activities
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Constantly tired or low on energy
• Difficulty focusing or making decisions
• Frequent guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness
• Mood swings or bursts of intense energy

You may even contemplate self-harm. If you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 immediately.

What are the different types of mood disorders?

Mood disorders come in different forms, each with unique symptoms. The most common types include:

Depression (major depressive disorder)

You may feel deep sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest in things you used to enjoy. It can also affect your sleep, appetite, focus, and self-esteem.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder involves cycles of emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). During manic episodes, you may feel extremely energetic, euphoric, or irritable.

Schizoaffective disorder

This involves a combination of mood disorder symptoms (like those found in depression or bipolar disorder) with symptoms of schizophrenia, such as delusions or hallucinations.

Mood disorders can be disruptive, but they often respond well to proper support.

How are mood disorders treated?

Your tailored treatment plan may include:

Therapy

Talk therapy is your time and place to explore difficult emotions, hone your coping skills, and heal.

Medication management

Depending on your diagnosis and needs, Acelise may prescribe antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotic medications to regulate your mood and complement other treatments and therapies.

Lifestyle changes

Simple habits like regular exercise, quality sleep, and stress management techniques can make a big difference in your mental health.

Building a network of support

Connecting with peer groups, involving loved ones, and building a strong support system are key to improving your mental health.

To book a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation with a skilled mental health professional at EL Elyon Medpsych Services, call the office or book online today.