Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Symptoms, and Treatment in Patna

04 Apr Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Symptoms, and Treatment in Patna

Mood disorders profoundly affect emotional health and overall well-being. Gaining knowledge about them is essential for effective emotional management.

This guide will clarify these complex conditions by covering:

• The main types of Mood disorder list (like major depressive and bipolar disorder), outlining their unique features.
• The diverse causes (including genetics, environment, and psychology).
• The common symptoms (affecting mood, thought, and physical health).
• Effective treatment options (medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes).

Our aim is to provide you with the support and information needed to navigate these challenges and move toward healing.

Definition of Mood Disorders

A mood disorders refers to a broad group of mental health conditions associated with disturbances in a person’s emotional state.

The two main types of mood disorders are…

Depressive Disorders

These are characterized by the presence of sad, empty, or irritable mood, accompanied by somatic and cognitive changes that significantly affect the person’s capacity to function.

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Also called clinical depression, it involves experiencing a major depressive episode lasting at least two weeks, characterized by symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, and difficulty concentrating.
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): Previously called dysthymia, this is a chronic form of depression with symptoms that are less severe than MDD but must last for at least two years.
• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD): A childhood disorder characterized by chronic, severe irritability and frequent, intense temper outbursts that are inconsistent with the child’s developmental level.
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that includes significant mood changes, irritability, and anxiety starting in the week before menstruation and improving within a few days after its onset.

Bipolar and Related Disorders

These are characterized by abnormal and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood and abnormally and persistently increased activity or energy (mania or hypomania), usually alternating with episodes of major depression.

• Bipolar I Disorder: Defined by the occurrence of at least one manic episode. Major depressive episodes are common but not required for a diagnosis.
• Bipolar II Disorder: Defined by a pattern of major depressive episodes and at least one hypomanic episode (a less severe form of mania), but without ever having a full manic episode.
• Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): A chronic, fluctuating mood disturbance involving numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms that are less severe than those required for Major Depressive Disorder. This pattern must last for at least two years.

Other specified different types of mood disorders include those due to:

• Another medical condition
• Substance/medication-induced

It’s important to consult with a best psychiatrist in Kankarbagh Patna for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Common Symptoms of Mood Disorders and Their Impact on Daily Life

Mood disorders affect not only an individual’s mood but also their functioning in various areas of life.

Below are the most common symptoms of mood disorder and their potential implications:

Personal Relationships and Social Life

• Increased Isolation: Individuals may withdraw from friends and family due to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability.
• Difficulty Sustaining Relationships: Communication deficits, emotional unavailability, or inability to engage can strain relationships.

Work and Academics

• Inability to Concentrate: Mood disorders often impair concentration, making it difficult to complete tasks or meet deadlines.
• Loss of Interest: Affected individuals may lack motivation to fulfill work or academic obligations.

Physical Health

• Fatigue/Energy: Persistent fatigue and sleep disturbances can deplete energy levels and overall health.
• Changes in Appetite: Loss of appetite or overeating as a coping mechanism can lead to weight changes.

Self-Esteem and Confidence

• Persistent Feelings of Worthlessness: Individuals often experience a negative self-image, feeling inferior, useless, or unworthy of love and care.

Statistics on Mood Disorders

Mood disorders, particularly depression, are a significant mental health concern in India, affecting millions of people.

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, afflicting approximately 56 million people in India.

Suicide rates in India have been steadily rising, with depression being a major contributing factor.

According to the National Mental Health Survey of 2015-16, 1 in 20 Indians experiences at least one episode of depression in their lifetime, highlighting the prevalence of affective disorders in the country.

The impact of depression is severe, diminishing quality of life, impairing functionality, and disrupting interpersonal relationships, underscoring the urgent need for intervention and treatment.

Definition of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are a class of mental disorders characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness that hinders daily functioning.

The most common types of anxiety disorders include:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Excessive Worry: Individuals with GAD experience persistent and excessive worry about various life issues, such as work, health, or relationships.
• Physical Symptoms: GAD often manifests as restlessness, muscle tension, or fatigue, interfering with normal daily activities.
• Trouble Relaxing: People with GAD struggle to relax, even in calm environments, as anxiety persists.

Panic Disorder

• Panic Attacks: This disorder involves sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, sweating, or dizziness.
• Fear of Future Attacks: Many individuals avoid situations or places associated with previous attacks due to fear of recurrence.
• Physical Impact: The intensity of panic attacks can significantly disrupt daily life.

Social Anxiety Disorder

• Fear of Judgment: Individuals experience intense fear of being evaluated or embarrassed in social settings, often leading to avoidance.
• Avoidance of Social Situations: This can severely impair personal and professional life, such as avoiding public speaking or social gatherings.
• Physiological Reactions: In anxiety-provoking social situations, individuals may experience sweating, trembling, or throat tightness, making communication difficult.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders and Their Effects on Individuals

Individuals with anxiety disorders experience intense worry, fear, or nervousness that disrupts normal functioning.

These symptoms can significantly affect personal, social, and routine activities.

Below are common symptoms and their effects:

Constant Worry and Fear

Individuals are often consumed by excessive worry about work, health, or relationships, which can hinder work performance and strain relationships.

Persistent fears may lead to avoidance of situations or opportunities, negatively impacting social and professional life.

Physical Symptoms

Common symptoms include increased heart rate, dizziness, and shortness of breath, which can intensify anxiety and perpetuate a cycle of fear.

These physical manifestations can contribute to deteriorating health and wellness.

Socializing Problems

Fear of judgment often leads to avoidance of social engagements, resulting in social isolation and strained relationships.

Physical symptoms like sweating or trembling in social settings can exacerbate anxiety.

Disrupted Sleep and Appetite

Anxiety can cause insomnia or disturbed sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive functioning.

Changes in appetite, such as overeating or loss of appetite, can result in weight fluctuations and further impact health.

Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental disorders globally, including in India:

Over 38 million people in India suffer from anxiety disorders.

Women are diagnosed with anxiety disorders more frequently than men due to biological, psychological, and social factors.

Anxiety disorders often co-occur with depressive disorders, complicating diagnosis and treatment and necessitating a holistic approach.

Overview of Diagnostic Criteria for Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Accurate diagnosis is critical for effective treatment of mood and anxiety disorders.

Mental health professionals use various evaluation methods to assess symptoms, provide diagnoses, and develop individualized treatment plans.

The diagnostic process typically includes the following components:

Clinical Assessment

• A psychiatrist or psychologist evaluates symptoms, their duration, and their impact on daily life.
• Assessing the degree of impairment in work, relationships, or social functioning helps determine the severity of the disorder.

Standardized Screening Tools

• Tools like the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire) for depression and the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7) for anxiety are commonly used to assess symptom severity.
• These structured questionnaires help clinicians monitor symptoms over time and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Physical Examination

• A thorough physical examination rules out medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or cardiovascular issues, that may mimic mood or anxiety disorder symptoms.
• Excluding physical causes ensures that mental health factors are the primary contributors.

Family and Medical History

• Family history is critical, as mental disorders often have a genetic component.
• Clinicians explore any history of depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric disorders in the family, as well as environmental stressors, to identify contributing factors.

Mood Disorder Treatment

Mood disorder treatments aim to manage symptoms and restore emotional balance and optimal functioning.

Available treatments include:

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A highly effective treatment for depression, CBT helps individuals identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving relationships and social support systems, helping individuals address interpersonal issues and develop communication skills.

Medications

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and reduce anxiety, commonly prescribed for depression.
• Mood Stabilizers: Medications like lithium are used to manage manic and depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.

Lifestyle Changes

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Mindfulness: Practices like yoga and meditation promote emotional stability.
• Stress Management Techniques: Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and yoga can help stabilize mood and manage anxiety.

Treatment Options for Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are highly treatable with the right approach, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives.

Effective treatments include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• A structured, evidence-based treatment that helps individuals identify and modify negative thoughts and behaviors that perpetuate anxiety.
• It focuses on developing coping skills, problem-solving, and addressing distorted thinking patterns.

Medication

• Antidepressants (SSRIs and SNRIs): Used for long-term anxiety management.
• Benzodiazepines: Prescribed for short-term relief of acute anxiety symptoms.

Exposure Therapy

• A form of CBT that involves gradual, controlled exposure to anxiety-provoking situations to reduce fear and anxiety.
• Particularly effective for phobias and social anxiety disorder.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

• Meditation, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation promote a calm mental state and reduce physical symptoms of anxiety.
• Mindfulness encourages present-moment awareness, helping individuals break the cycle of overthinking and worry.

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep support mental health.
• Avoiding anxiety triggers like caffeine and alcohol can also help manage symptoms.

How to Access Mood Disorder Treatment Center?

Pratap’s Neuro and Child Psychiatry Centre, led by Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh, is a leading facility for Mood Disorder Treatment Center in Patna.

It offers a comprehensive approach to managing mood and anxiety disorders with individualized care.

Reasons to Choose Pratap’s Neuro and Child Psychiatry Centre:

• Experienced Leadership: Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh, one of Patna’s top psychiatrists, brings over a decade of expertise.
• Comprehensive Diagnosis and Treatment: The center conducts thorough evaluations to create personalized treatment plans.
• Personalized Therapy: Tailored therapy sessions address mood and anxiety disorders.
• Expert Medication Management: Medications are prescribed and monitored for safety and efficacy.
• Family Counseling: Support services ensure a healing environment for those facing mental health challenges.

Conclusion 

Mood and anxiety disorders significantly impact individuals’ emotional, social, and physical well-being, affecting millions in India.

Early recognition and intervention are crucial for effective management.

With comprehensive diagnostic approaches and tailored treatments like psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, individuals can regain control and improve their quality of life.

In Patna, facilities like Pratap’s Neuro and Child Psychiatry Centre, led by Dr. Vivek Pratap Singh (best psychiatrist in Patna Bihar), offer specialized care, ensuring personalized treatment plans and support.

By seeking professional help and fostering awareness, those affected can navigate these challenges, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives, underscoring the importance of accessible mental health care.

FAQs

1: What Are The Two Most Common Types Of Mood Disorders?

The two most common types of mood disorders are Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Bipolar Disorder.

MDD is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and fatigue, often accompanied by thoughts of worthlessness or suicide.

Bipolar Disorder involves extreme mood swings, alternating between depressive lows and manic highs, disrupting daily functioning.

2: Is Anxiety A Mood Disorder?

Anxiety is not classified as a mood disorder but as a separate category of mental health conditions called anxiety disorders.

While mood disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder, primarily affect emotional states, anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear, worry, or nervousness.

However, anxiety and mood disorders can co-occur, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

3: What Are The 5 Mood Disorders?

The five major mood disorders include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Bipolar Disorder (Types I and II), Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder), Cyclothymia, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

MDD involves persistent sadness and loss of interest, while Bipolar Disorder features mood swings between depression and mania.

Dysthymia, Cyclothymia, and SAD involve chronic low mood, milder mood swings, or seasonal depressive episodes, respectively.