A mood disorder is a serious illness that affects one’s mood and other functions. For example, all types of depressive and bipolar disorders are classified as mood disorders. People may experience moods ranging from extremely low (depressed) to extremely high (manic) due to a mood disorder.Â
Read on to understand mood disorders and their subtypes.
Mood Disorders and Their Subtypes
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) was updated in 2013 to categorize mood disorders into two subtypes: bipolar disorder and related disorders and depressive disorders. The following are examples of mood disorders:
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
MDD is also known as clinical depression or major depression. Symptoms include extreme sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness, as well as physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms.
Bipolar 1 Disorder (Mania)
Previously known as “manic depression,” Mania is distinguished by euphoria, irritability, and exuberance. During manic episodes, people with bipolar I frequently do things that are harmful to themselves or others.
Bipolar II Disorder
This requires at least one current or previous episode of hypomania (a milder form of mania), as well as one current or previous episode of major depression, but no prior history of manic episodes. All three manias and major depressions have the same diagnostic criteria.
Cyclothymic Disorder
A two-year history of numerous episodes of not-quite-hypomania and not-quite-major depression is required for diagnosis.
The Unspecified Disorders
Substance/medication-induced mood disorders and medically induced mood disorders are two other types of mood disorders. Certain “other specified” and “unspecified” mood disorders fall short of the criteria for the other mood disorders.
New Mood Disorders Today
Today, the DSM-V includes three new depressive disorders. They are the following:
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)
Children and adolescents up to the age of 18 who exhibit persistent irritability, anger, and frequent extreme temper outbursts without significant provocation are now included in the DSM-V.
Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
Both chronic major depression (CMD) and dysthymic disorder (or dysthymia), a milder form of depression, are classified as persistent depressive disorder (PDD).
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
The presence of one or more distinct symptoms in the week preceding menstruation, as well as their resolution, constitutes PMDD. Mood swings, irritability or anger, depression or hopelessness, anxiety or tension, and one or more of the remaining seven symptoms are all symptoms of this disorder.
The Symptoms
Mood disorders can make it difficult to complete daily tasks. Unexplained headaches or stomachaches are common in children and adults, affecting one’s quality of life. Among the symptoms is a loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, changes in appetite, changes in sleep patterns, anxiety, fatigue, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, annoyance, embarrassment, suicidal or homicidal thoughts, and more.
Mood disorder symptoms persist and begin to have an adverse effect on daily life.
The Causes
Although the precise cause of mood disorders is unknown, they do run in families. The most likely cause is a chemical imbalance in the brain. Death, divorce, or trauma can all trigger depression, especially if the person has had it before or if it is genetic.
The Diagnosis
Mood disorders should be evaluated and treated by a psychiatrist. If you exhibit any of the above symptoms, especially suicidal thoughts, you should seek immediate help.
A physical examination, laboratory tests, and psychiatric evaluation will be performed by your doctor to make a diagnosis.
The Treatment
Millions of people suffer from mood disorders, and treatment has improved their lives. Mood disorders are treated with psychotherapy and medications that help regulate chemical imbalances in the brain. Often, the most effective course of action is a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about the many mood disorders that exist today, you may understand yourself and the people around you better. Whether it is you or a loved one experiencing these symptoms, make sure to reach out to a medical professional. This can only ensure you better mental health and improved quality of life.
Amodeus Healthcare is here to improve the quality of life for everyone through providing telepsychiatric services in Londonjerry. Get in touch with us today!