Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that significantly impact a person's emotional state and ability to function. The two main types of mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder.
Depression involves feeling sad, hopeless, worthless, or irritable, along with other symptoms like:
Depression can range from mild to severe. Major depression interferes significantly with everyday life and may require treatment to improve.
On the other hand, bipolar disorder causes extreme mood swings between emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). Mania may involve feeling euphoric, full of energy, or irritable. Other mania symptoms include:
These mood episodes in bipolar disorder are separate from the normal ups and downs that people experience occasionally. They are more extreme, last for at least a week, and can damage relationships or lead to risky behavior if left untreated.
While the causes are complex, mood disorders often involve a chemical imbalance in the brain or may have genetic and environmental triggers like trauma or stress. Fortunately, various treatments can help manage symptoms successfully, including:
With appropriate treatment and support, many people with mood disorders can achieve stable moods and enjoy full, rewarding lives. Reach out to a mental health professional at Restore Wellness Clinic if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, intense mood swings, or other disruptions that interfere with daily activities. Help and hope are available.