Mood disorder - Optimal Hormone Health Clinic

What is a mood disorder?

A mood disorder is a mental health condition that primarily affects a person's persistent emotional state. Mood disorders can drastically impact one's feelings, behaviors, thoughts and physical health.

The two main categories of mood disorders are depressive disorders and bipolar disorders.

Depressive disorders involve intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness and other depressed mood symptoms. Examples include major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

On the other hand, bipolar disorders involve shifts between high and low mood episodes. The "highs" are characterized by manic or hypomanic episodes with symptoms like euphoria, increased energy, risk-taking behavior and racing thoughts. Bipolar I and Bipolar II fall under this category.

Some key facts about mood disorders:

• They often first develop during adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur at any age
• Women are diagnosed with mood disorders more often than men
• They have a genetic/biological component, but environmental factors and stress can trigger episodes
• With proper treatment, many people with mood disorders can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives

If you are struggling with depressive symptoms, manic highs and lows, or other possible signs of a mood disorder, please seek help from a mental health professional right away. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to accessing effective treatment options.

The hormone specialists at Optimal Hormone Health Clinic also treat mood disorder symptoms that are related to hormonal imbalances. Contact their caring clinic today to learn more about science-based hormone therapy services.

Common Symptoms

Common mood disorder symptoms include:

• Depressed mood - Feeling sad, empty, hopeless or irritable most of the time
• Sleep disturbances - Sleeping too little or too much
• Appetite changes - Eating more or less than usual
• Fatigue and low energy - Feeling tired and sluggish often
• Difficulty concentrating - Trouble focusing or making decisions
• Feelings of guilt and worthlessness
• Suicidal thoughts

Those with bipolar disorder also experience the "highs" of mania or hypomania. Thismay involve elevated self-esteem, increased activity levels, impulsiveness, and risky behaviors.

Causes and Risk Factors

Research suggests mood disorders are often caused by a complex mix of:

• Biological factors - Brain chemistry imbalances, hormones, genetics
• Environmental factors - Trauma, grief, stress
• Brain structure - Differences in certain emotion-regulating brain areas

Certain circumstances can increase one's risk:

• Family history of mood disorders
• Major life stresses such as financial problems, divorce, trauma
• Substance abuse
• Medical conditions, including chronic illness, insomnia, hormonal disorders

Treatment

Fortunately, there are many effective treatment options available, including:

• Medications - Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, anti-anxiety meds
• Psychotherapy - Talk therapy sessions with a licensed mental health therapist
• Brain stimulation therapies - Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)
• Light therapy - For seasonal affective disorder
• Support groups - Valuable for coping, advice, inspiration

With consistent treatment, most people with mood disorders can manage their symptoms, function normally and enjoy healthy, fulfilling lives. Don't hesitate to reach out for help.