A Guide to Mood Disorders by Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh Psychiatrist In Patna

07 Mar A Guide to Mood Disorders by Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh Psychiatrist In Patna

Imagine waking up one day feeling great, only to feel really sad the next.

Mood disorders are more than just having a bad day—they are serious mental health issues that can change lives.

From the highs of mania to the lows of depression, these disorders impact millions of people around the world, but many do not understand them.

These disorders can disrupt daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

It’s important to understand these issues well for early detection and treatment.

In this comprehensive guide, Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh, one of the best psychiatrist in Kankarbagh Patna with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating mood disorders, aims to shed light on the complexities of these conditions.

This blog will explore the different types of mood disorders, their symptoms, causes, and the latest treatment options available.

Mood Disorders Definition

Mood disorders are mental health disorders that affect a person’s feelings.

These disturbances can range from prolonged periods of sadness and hopelessness (depression) to episodes of extreme happiness or irritability (mania).

Mood disorders affect how individuals feel, think, and behave, often interfering with their ability to function in daily life.

Mood Disorders Characteristics

• Duration of the irritance – Mood disorders cause a change in emotional status either for the high moods, low moods, or fluctuation in moods for a course beyond regular changes, on an average for 2 weeks or above.
• Inability to control expressions – A person’s inability to keep a handle on his own beings often results in instability.
• Interference with day-to-day life – Mood disorders can affect relationship health, work performance, and socializing.
• Persistent symptoms – Unlike temporary mood ups and downs, mood disorders can go on for weeks, months, or years.

The problems can range from depression to bipolar disorder, and they can be serious for different people.

Some cases are mild, while others have severe mood changes that need medical help.

How Common is Mood Disorders?

Mood disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people across all ages, genders, and backgrounds.

Here’s a breakdown of their prevalence:

• About 9.7% of adults in the U.S. suffer from a mood disorder each year. (National Institute of Mental Health)
• An estimated 280 million people worldwide are diagnosed with depression, making it one of the leading causes of disability. (World Health Organization)
• Hormonal changes, pregnancy, and motherhood lead more women than men to be diagnosed with mood disorders.
• Incidence will follow any development cycle but usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood.
• Children and adolescents are being affected, but their symptoms can be misdiagnosed or missed altogether.

Mood disorders are incredibly common, affecting a significant portion of the global population.

Despite their prevalence, many people do not seek help due to stigma or lack of awareness.

Is OCD a Mood Disorder?

No, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not classified as a mood disorder.

Instead, OCD is categorized as an anxiety disorder.

However, emotional turmoil can be an outcome of OCD, and many people with OCD suffer from mood disorders like depression.

The Strong Association between OCD and Mood Disorders:

• Up to 50-60% of individuals with OCD experience major depressive disorder (MDD) at some point in their lives.
• Studies suggest that 10-35% of individuals with OCD also have bipolar disorder.
• Both OCD and mood disorders involve dysregulation of serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters.

Reasons for Why OCD Commonly Coexists with Mood Disorders:

• Both OCD and mood disorders involve significant emotional suffering, such as anxiety, sadness, or hopelessness.
• Both conditions can severely impact daily functioning, relationships, and quality of life.
• Individuals with OCD and depression often experience repetitive, intrusive thoughts, though the focus may differ (e.g., fears in OCD vs. negative self-talk in depression).

The close connection between OCD and mood disorders shows that we need better overall care.

By knowing how these conditions are related, we can improve how we diagnose, treat, and support those who are affected.

Is Anxiety A Mood Disorder?

No, anxiety is not a mood disorder. It is classified as an anxiety disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, involve persistent changes in emotional state, while anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, or panic about future threats.

However, anxiety and mood disorders often coexist, with many individuals experiencing both simultaneously.

This overlap can complicate diagnosis and treatment.

Types of Mood Disorders

Mood disorders encompass a range of mental health conditions characterized by significant changes in mood and emotional state.

Based on their manifestations and the intensity of symptoms, the clinical field differentiates various subtypes of mood disorders.

Here are the mood disorders list you must know:

1: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common mood problem.

It involves feeling sad most of the time, losing interest in things you usually enjoy, and feeling very tired.

These feelings last for at least 2 weeks and can seriously affect daily life.

People may have trouble focusing, changes in their appetite, and may even think about harming themselves or suicide.

2: Bipolar Disorder

Alternating episodes of mania (elevated mood, high energy) and depression (low mood, lack of energy).

There are mainly two types:

1. Bipolar I Disorder, with an almost invariable requirement of hospitalization for stabilization due to the gravity of the manic episode, which goes along most of the time with depressive episodes.
2. Bipolar II Disorder, with hypomanic episodes followed by depressive episodes. Manic episodes are all about impulsivity and rest, while depressed episodes have low energy, low mood, and hopelessness.
3. Cyclothymic Disorder: Milder, chronic mood swings that don’t meet the criteria for full manic or depressive episodes.

3: Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Dysthymia – Persistent Depressive Disorder is a disorder of chronic depression that lasts for two years and bears much milder symptoms than MDD.

In fact, in day-to-day functioning, such symptoms can inflict considerable emotional distress and torment.

Whereas major depression may have patients feeling rather low most of the time, the low mood does not outweigh functioning in daily life activities.

4: Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymia is a constant disturbance in mood that involves many spells of depressive, although less intense, symptoms.

Fluctuating periods of mania-like highs to lows become exaggerated but lower than those in bipolar disorders.

Mood alternates for a period that may last from a few days to weeks, often allowing most people to remain functionally operable.

5: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Depression that occurs during specific seasons, typically winter, due to reduced sunlight.

Symptoms include fatigue, loss of energy, excessive sleep, and increased appetite.

The cause is usually due to a lack of exposure to sunlight, resulting in excitably combined serotonin and melatonin, altering hormonal states.

6: Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

PMDD differs from PMS in that the psychological symptoms are of greatest severity.

Examples are irritability and anxiety with depressed mood that may start two weeks before the menstrual period and go on until the onset of menses.

Some of the symptoms might make it difficult for the woman to carry out her day-to-day activities, and some of them may interfere more with social ones, warranting medical attention.

7: Substance-Induced Mood Disorder

Mood disturbances that occur as a result of substance use, such as drugs or alcohol, or withdrawal from these substances.

Symptoms can include depressive or manic symptoms that are directly linked to substance use.

8: Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

Diagnosed in children and adolescents, characterized by severe temper outbursts and chronic irritability.

Symptoms may inlude frequent anger, difficulty functioning at home or school.

Goal: To address severe mood dysregulation in young people.

Mood disorders are diverse and can significantly impact a person’s emotional well-being and daily functioning.

If you or someone you know is struggling with different mood disorders, reaching out to a mental health professional can provide the support and guidance needed for recovery.

Causes of Mood Disorders

Different events can change brain chemicals, emotions, and stress levels, which can lead to mood disorders.

There are different mood disorders causes, including genetics, imbalances in brain chemicals, environmental factors, and mental weaknesses.

These causes affect people in different ways and to different degrees.

Genetic Factors

Are mood disorders genetic? Family history emerges as one of the crucial influences that have been found to lead to mood disorders.

If a person has a close relative, in case of a parent or sibling having the same disorder, then the chances go up to develop mood disorder by a lot.

Some genes are directly correlated to mood regulation and emotional stability, making some individuals more vulnerable than others.

Genetics increase risk, but they cannot determine destiny; lifestyle patterns, coping strategies, and environment will also facilitate triggering the expression of any mood disorder.

Brain Chemistry Imbalance

Mood stabilization is achieved through neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

If such neurotransmitter imbalance occurs, mood will be disrupted; if low, then depression occurs.

There is low serotonin: long considered the test of depressive mood states along with feelings of well-being.

When in a high condition, it contributes to increased manic symptoms in different types of bipolar disorders.

Hormone irregularities can affect mood and emotional stability, as seen in pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid diseases.

The neurotransmitter effectiveness that manages the chronic continuous effect on mood changes becomes damaged due to chronic stress.

Environmental Factors

Any number of very stressful events- a death, unemployment, eviction, or a divorce- can trigger what we call “mood disorders.”

Early-life trauma through abuse or neglect greatly increases the risk of mood disorders later in life.

Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and others inflict emotional distress with depressive signs and symptoms.

Substance abuse aggravates the pre-existing mood disorder environment by disrupting the brain function and increasing the emotional instability.

Psychological Factors

Negative thoughts and wrong ways of thinking, like being too hard on yourself, feeling hopeless, or expecting the worst, can show up as depression and anxiety.

Low self-esteem and being easily stressed can make a person more likely to have mood problems.

An unstable home life and unhealthy relationships can cause emotional pain and mental health issues.

Being alone and not getting steady support from family and friends can make mood problems worse, making it even harder to deal with stress and bad feelings.

In essence, mood disorders arise from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

While genetics can increase susceptibility, factors like brain chemistry imbalances, stressful life events, and trauma also play significant roles.

If you or someone you know is struggling, seeking professional help can pave the way to recovery and a healthier, balanced life.

Mood Disorders Symptoms

Different mood disorders have different symptoms, and how strong those symptoms are can vary from person to person.

One person might feel very sad for a long time, while another might switch between feeling very happy and very sad.

It’s important to recognize these symptoms, especially if they are very obvious, because this is crucial for getting the right treatment and feeling better.

Sadness or Irritability

A feeling of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness that arises with no clear reason, coupled with feelings of irritability or anger that can suddenly affect one’s mood and create conflict with others.

Loss of Interest in Activities Once Enjoyed

Boredom or reduced motivation toward hobbies, decreased social outings with friends or exciting work, loss of interest in family, or being socially withdrawn.

Extreme Mood Swings or Episodes of Mania

Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder that causes people to have periods of depression and periods of mania.

During mania, a person may feel very energetic, talk a lot, act impulsively, and make risky choices.

In contrast, during depressive episodes, they may feel hopeless, tired, and unable to do even simple daily tasks.

Trouble Sleeping or Sleeping Too Much

Insomnia: falling asleep with difficulty, frequent awakening during the night, or early morning awakening.

Hypersomnia: an increase in the duration of sleep, sleepiness even after prolonged sleep, and an inability to get out of bed.

Fatigue and Low Energy Levels

Always feeling tired, even after getting enough rest; feeling weak or low on energy during easy tasks; feeling so tired that it makes it hard to do things you usually can do.

Trouble Concentrating or Making Decisions

Difficulty in paying attention, focusing, or remembering important information about people.

Mental unrest causes confusion and makes it hard to decide among different options, no matter how simple or complicated they are.

Guilt, Hopelessness, or Worthlessness

Feels like one has let everyone down or is a burden to others.A strong sense of hopelessness about the future or feeling that nothing will get better.

Changes in Appetite and Weight

Some people turn to overeating and weight gain as mechanisms to cope with emotional pain, while others may have decreased appetite and unintentional weight loss due to disinterest in food.

Suicidal Thoughts or Self-Harm Tendencies

At the worst, the person may even have developed suicidal or self-harm tendencies.

They feel as if they are trapped, overwhelmed, or out of options when dealing with emotional pain.

Awareness of mood disorder symptoms empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward recovery and healing.

By seeking help and support, they can reclaim their emotional well-being and enhance their quality of life.

If any of these thoughts occur, you should contact your mental health professional or crisis support immediately.

Who Does It Affect?

A mood disorder can happen to any person of any age or even both sexes.

Still, some have a little higher vulnerability than others, with biological, psychological, or environmental reasons.

Children and Adolescents

• Mood disorders can have an onset very early in life, adversely affecting academic performance, peer relationships, and overall well-being.
• Symptoms in younger children will often differ from classical depression with more increased irritability, aggression, or social withdrawal.
• Teenage years may manifest as low energy and self-esteem or as more risky behaviors like drug taking or injury to self.
• Any early detection and the implementation of interventions are essential to avoid having chronic consequences for mental health.

Adults

• Work, and even personal challenges can underpin the development of mood disorders in adulthood.
• They may become chronic in adults and present with burnout, issues related to chronic fatigue, or even degree in relationships.
• Without treatment, mood disorders can have a serious impact on productivity, social life, and overall quality of life.

Women

• The woman’s experience with mood disorder states that it is compounded by the hormonal factors that change from time to time.
• Pregnancy, the postpartum period, and the changes brought by menopause or certain stages in the monthly cycle can cause emotional swings.
• Postpartum depression is one of the most common lateral movements for many new mothers, ranging from just being sad or tired to lacking a bond with their baby.

Older Adults

• The elderly live with the reality of a higher risk for mood disorders since their lives are usually associated with loneliness, chronic diseases, and losing loved ones.
• One of the oft-misspotted symptoms for a depressed older adult is calling it aging, thus delaying treatment.
• Any dysfunction with cognitive level and physical health can also contribute to mood disturbance; hence, emotional well-being is a proper concern.

Individuals with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, substance use disorders, or personality disorders, are more likely to develop mood disorders.

Mood disorders do not discriminate—they can affect anyone, but certain factors increase vulnerability.

Mood Disorders Diagnosis

A psychiatrist, psychologist, or any mental health care provider can make a diagnosis by carefully checking the patient.

This is important because many mental health issues show similar signs.

So, a good evaluation is key for a correct diagnosis.

Clinical Interviews

• This is where the mental health provider carries out in-depth interviews to obtain a clear picture of the person in terms of his or her emotional state, cognitions, patterns of behavior, and personal history. Such an interview would address duration, severity, past traumas, family history of mental disorders, and daily functioning.
• Sleep patterns, appetite, energy levels, and concentration would be the basis from which one would define the presence or absence of mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5)

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) provides specific criteria for diagnosing mood disorders.

Examples of  Mood disorders (DSM-5) include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): At least two weeks of persistent sadness or loss of interest, along with other symptoms like fatigue or changes in appetite.
• Bipolar Disorder: Episodes of mania (elevated mood, high energy) and depression (low mood, lack of energy).
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic, low-grade depression lasting at least two years.

Psychological Assessments

Doctors are checking how serious mood symptoms are by using standard questionnaires and self-report surveys like the Beck Depression Inventory, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and Mood Disorder Questionnaire.

These tools help in diagnosing depression and bipolar disorder by measuring changes in mood, feelings, and behavior over time.

Medical Tests

Given that some medical conditions mimic symptoms of mood disorder, blood tests or brain imaging might be performed.

A complete physical exam shows that a medical illness is not causing mood disorders, and checking for substance use shows if drug or alcohol abuse is affecting emotions.

A correct diagnosis is the first step to properly treating mood disorders.

If you or someone you know has symptoms, getting help from a mental health professional can help clarify the situation and lead to recovery.

Mood Disorder Treatment

The right combination of treatments can help people with mood disorders feel better and live their lives fully.

Medication, therapy, and changes to daily habits are usually included in a treatment plan to reduce symptoms and keep emotions stable.

1: Medication

The contribution of medications is very essential in maintaining the balance in the chemical milieu of the brain and stabilizing a person’s mood.

Different medications are prescribed according to the mood disorder being treated.

Antidepressants:

• SSRIs, such as fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft), increase serotonergic availability to affect depression.
• SNRIs, such as venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta), enhance both serotonin and norepinephrine levels.

Sometimes, tricyclic antidepressants and MAOIs are considered for the treatment of extremely severe depression in which other medications are not working.

Mood Stabilizers:

Lithium is used for bipolar disorder and helps manage both manic and depressive episodes.

Anticonvulsants like valproate and lamotrigine are also able to stabilize the individual’s mood.

Antipsychotic drugs:

If there are psychotic symptoms in mood disorders, then atypical antipsychotic medications will be prescribed for the most severe cases (for instance, quetiapine or risperidone).

When patients report alternating states of mood, feelings of paranoia, or even auditory or visual hallucinations, these medications are helpful.

2: Psychotherapy

A very important aspect of therapy that helps individuals understand their feelings and how to deal with them is ultimately beneficial for their mental health.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy-CBT: Concentrate on understanding and changing negative thought patterns. Help patients to challenge irrational beliefs and to embrace positive thinking.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Important emotional bonds are made with people from birth onward. These can call to mind potential flashbacks or serve to exacerbate mood disturbances.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy: A type of CBT teaches mindfulness, emotional regulation, and tdistress tolerance. Works best in cases of extreme mood and impulse.

3: Lifestyle Changes

All these lead to improved daily habits, which will significantly help improve the symptoms of the mood disorders.

• Regular Exercise: Endorphins released during physical activity help in natural mood elevation. Exercise also helps reduce stress and depressive symptoms over time.
• Balanced Diet: Eating a healthy diet helps the brain stay strong and keeps a good mood. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds can help improve mood.
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Methods to reduce stress, like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing, can help improve mood and manage emotions. Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day is important for a stable mood.
• Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule improves mood and energy levels.
• Stress Management: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.

Treatment for mood disorders is highly individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another.

With the right combination of therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents exhibit mood disorders quite differently from adults.

This is generally because younger children find it difficult to verbalize their feelings, and this makes such conditions show themselves in behavioral or physical symptoms.

Signs in Children:

• Increased irritability, frequent temper tantrums, or unprovoked angry outbursts.
• Withdrawal from family, friends, or school activities.
• Low energy levels, tiredness, little interest in play.
• A sharp decline in academic performance and inability to concentrate on studies.
• Physical complaints such as stomachaches or headaches without a clear explanation.

Signs in Adolescents:

• Total disruption in daily life due to severe mood fluctuations.
• Risky behaviors, including reckless driving, drug use, or unsafe relationships.
• Self-harm (e.g., cutting, burning, or scratching oneself).
• Suicidal ideation, frequent statements of hopelessness, and withdrawal from social contacts of family and friends.

Treatment for Children and Teens:

Therapy:

• Family therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy are useful for some youngsters in regulating their emotions.
• Add another layer of emotional support with counseling in the school setting.

Medication:

• For particularly severe cases, the patient may be put on antidepressants or mood stabilizers but under the strictest of supervision.
• Pediatric psychiatrists closely follow the effects of medications to reverse any adverse side effects.

Help for Parents:

• Educating parents about mood disorders helps in supporting their child’s emotional needs.
• Encouraging dialogue and a stable home will help tremendously with a child’s overall mental health.

Coping Strategies for Individuals and Families

Living with or supporting someone who has a mood disorder can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to help manage the emotional, social, and practical impacts.

Here are some coping strategies for both individuals and families:

For the Individual:

• Establish a daily routine that imparts some structure and stability to his/her life.
• Be involved in hobbies and social activities: Be positively interactive. Resist the inclination to isolate oneself.
• Seek professional help for therapy or counseling when required.
• Apply mindfulness, meditate, and perform relaxation exercises to reduce stress on oneself.
• Join support groups to connect with others who understand your experiences. Share your feelings with trusted friends or family members.
• Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate small achievements to build confidence.

For Families:

• Support the person emotionally and without judgment to help them feel understood.
• Be informed about mood disorders to recognize their effects and treatment options.
• Encourage individuals to participate actively in their treatment through supporting medication use or therapy appointments.
• Encourage rebuilding a positive atmosphere around the home by fostering open communication, constructive expressions of feelings, and providing reassurance.
• Learn about the mood disorder to better understand your loved one’s experiences. Attend family therapy or psychoeducation sessions.
• Establish clear boundaries to protect your own well-being while providing support. Avoid enabling unhealthy behaviors.
• Use “I” statements to express your feelings without blaming (e.g., “I feel worried when…”). Listen actively and validate your loved one’s emotions.

Coping with mood disorders is a journey that requires patience, understanding, and support.

By implementing these strategies, individuals and families can navigate the challenges together and build a healthier, more supportive environment.

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Conclusion

Mood disorders are some of the most complicated forms of mental disorder, such as depression and bipolar disorder that affecting millions of people’s lives around the globe.

While their causes—genetic, biological, and environmental—are multifaceted, effective treatments like therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes offer hope.

There are times when things become so unbearable as to deem one ineffective treatment method or supportive structure to lead a life full of success.

Sometimes early intervention may greatly help along with appropriate diagnosis, and medications or therapies, even lifestyle changes may introduce into one’s life for improving mental well-being.

Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh’s guide highlights the importance of recognizing symptoms, exploring underlying causes, and seeking appropriate treatment options.

For either the patient or oneself, seeking the first step towards recovery requires the establishment of a relationship between the afflicted and some reliable sources of help.