Mood disorder

What is a mood disorder?

Mood disorders are a category of mental health issues characterized primarily by persistent feelings of sadness, elevated mood, or fluctuations between extreme highs and lows. These disorders can significantly impact a person's quality of life and ability to function.

Some of the most common types of mood disorders include:

• Major depressive disorder: Extended periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and lack of interest in daily activities. This disorder may cause withdrawal from normal social activities, sleep issues, loss of energy, and suicidal thoughts.


• Bipolar disorder: Cycling between emotional highs (mania) and lows, often with periods of normal mood in between. The highs are characterized by elevated self-esteem, increase in energy, reduced need for sleep, and unusual behavior such as impulsive decision making.


• Dysthymia: A mild but chronic form of depression lasting at least two years in adults (one year in children). The symptoms are less severe than major depression but can still negatively impact relationships and daily functioning.


• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): A type of depression correlating with changes in seasons, typically starting in fall or winter when daylight hours decrease. Common symptoms include low energy, social withdrawal, weight gain, and cravings for carbohydrates.

What causes mood disorders?

Research shows mood disorders likely stem from a complex interaction between genetics, brain chemistry, hormones, and environmental factors. Trauma, grief, medical illnesses, substance abuse, and stress can also contribute to or worsen mood issues.

Seeking treatment is important, as mood disorders will generally not resolve entirely on their own. Lifestyle changes related to diet, exercise, sleep hygiene, and stress management can help support recovery. Many also benefit from some combination of talk therapy, medication, light therapy, or alternative treatments like acupuncture.

If you are struggling with feelings of depression or rapid mood swings, know that you are not alone. Consider speaking with a mental health professional or making an appointment at a holistic hormone and mental wellness clinic like Hormone Health Clinic. Their compassionate team can provide testing to uncover potential hormonal imbalances or nutrient deficiencies underlying mood issues. They then develop customized treatment plans that get to the root cause, helping clients regain emotional stability and thrive.

The key is identifying the factors specific to your situation so you can find the solutions that will work best for your unique needs. With proper treatment and self-care, many people with mood disorders can feel dramatically better and lead fulfilling lives. There is hope, even during the darkest of times.