Mood disorder

What is a mood disorder?

A mood disorder is a mental health condition that affects a person's overall emotional state and ability to feel emotions. People with mood disorders experience extreme and intense emotions that negatively impact their daily functioning and quality of life.

There are several types of mood disorders that fall along a spectrum:

• Major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder involve feeling overwhelming and persistent sadness, low mood, lack of motivation, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, and loss of interest in activities.


• Bipolar disorder alternately causes intense feelings of elevated mood (mania) and depression.


• Dysthymia is a mild but long-lasting form of depression.


• Other disorders like cyclothymic disorder involve rapid cycling between high and low moods.

Mood disorders differ from ordinary emotional ups and downs by being more extreme, pervasive, and persistent over long periods. They can significantly disrupt work, relationships, sleep, appetite, concentration, and other aspects of life.

What causes mood disorders?

The exact causes are unknown but likely involve a complex mix of:

• Biological factors like brain chemistry imbalances, genetics, hormones


• Environmental factors like trauma, loss, stress


• Psychological factors like personality, poor coping skills

Identifying the root cause with comprehensive testing from providers like Hormone Wellness Institute allows creating personalized and targeted treatment plans to manage symptoms.

Getting help

If your mood negatively impacts daily functioning for two weeks or more, see a mental health professional. They can diagnose any issues and help create a multifaceted treatment plan which may involve:

• Medications like antidepressants, mood stabilizers


• Psychotherapy to learn coping techniques


• Alternative treatments like meditation, yoga, supplements


• For some patients, hormone therapy to restore balance

With proper treatment tailored to your specific needs, most people with mood disorders can effectively manage symptoms and regain a fulfilling, enjoyable life. Don't lose hope!