Mood Disorders

Life has its natural ebb and flow of emotions, all of which are part of the human experience. Everyone feels happy, sad, excited or frustrated sometimes. However, when these emotional states become persistent and intense and significantly interfere with daily life, it may indicate the presence of a mood disorder.

At their core, mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by a significant disturbance in mood. These can be big changes in a person’s feelings that last for a long time. A person may feel extremely sad and empty for weeks, or they may feel overly happy and full of energy, even if nothing special has happened. These strong feelings can influence how they think, act, sleep and eat and how well they can perform at school or work. 

It’s crucial to distinguish the differences between typical mood fluctuations and mood disorders. While everyone experiences changes in mood in response to life events, mood disorders involve shifts that are more severe and persistent and can happen without an obvious trigger. These conditions can make it challenging for a person to work, study, maintain relationships or do activities they once enjoyed. 

There are different types of mood disorders, and each one has its own diagnostic criteria and characteristic patterns of mood disturbance:

Major depressive disorder (MDD) — MDD is often simply referred to as depression. It is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in doing activities a person used to enjoy, and other emotional, cognitive and physical symptoms that make it hard to do daily tasks. To be diagnosed with MDD, these symptoms must be present for at least two weeks. Depressive episodes can happen once, but more commonly, people may experience recurring episodes throughout their life. 

Bipolar I disorder — Bipolar I disorder is defined by at least one manic episode. A manic episode is when a person feels extremely happy, excited or easily angry, and has a lot of energy and fast thoughts, leading them to do risky things. These episodes are overwhelming and can cause problems or even the need for hospitalization. People experiencing bipolar I disorder may also experience hypomanic or major depressive episodes.

Bipolar II disorder — Bipolar II disorder involves a history of at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode. A hypomanic episode is similar to a manic episode but is less severe and shorter in duration. Hypomanic episodes also do not cause severe disruption in social or occupational functioning or require hospitalization. People experiencing bipolar II disorder may have significant fluctuations in mood, cycling between periods of depression and less severe periods of elevated mood.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) — DMDD is a mood disorder that is diagnosed in children and adolescents up to age 18 and is characterized by severe and recurrent temper outbursts that are out of proportion in intensity or duration to the situation. Between outbursts, children with DMDD are in a persistently irritable or angry mood most of the day, almost every day. This diagnosis was introduced to address concerns about the overdiagnosis of bipolar disorder in children. 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — SAD is a subtype of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly happening during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight. SAD symptoms usually lessen during the spring and summer. Common symptoms of SAD include fatigue, increased sleep, weight gain and carbohydrate cravings, in addition to typical depression symptoms.

Mood disorders can cause different signs and symptoms depending on the specific diagnosis and the person experiencing them. However, there are some common symptoms, for example:

• Feeling sad, empty, irritable, euphoric, or in an elevated or expansive mood for periods of time
• Feeling more tired than usual or having too much energy
• Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Experiencing abnormal changes in appetite or weight
• Having trouble focusing or making decisions
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Losing interest in hobbies or other previously enjoyed activities
• Experiencing impulsivity or partaking in risky behaviors
• Having unexplained aches and pains, headaches, or digestive issues
• Thinking negative things about oneself
• Thinking about death or hurting oneself

Specific symptoms by disorder include:

Major depressive disorder — Persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, significant changes in weight or appetite, sleep problems, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide

Bipolar I disorder — At least one manic episode characterized by elevated mood, inflated self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressured speech, racing thoughts and distractibility

Bipolar II disorder — A history of at least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode; no history of a full manic episode

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) — Severe and recurrent temper outbursts (verbal or behavioral) that are out of proportion to the situation and inconsistent with developmental level, happening three or more times per week. A persistently irritable or angry mood is present between outbursts. 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — Depressive symptoms that consistently emerge during a specific season (typically fall or winter) and ease during other seasons, often accompanied by fatigue, increased sleep, weight gain and carbohydrate cravings

Mood disorders are highly treatable, and a variety of evidence-based approaches can significantly improve symptoms and help people lead fulfilling lives. Treatment plans are unique and tailored to each person’s specific type of mood disorder, the severity of their symptoms and their unique needs. Treatment approaches for mood disorders often include:

Psychotherapy — Psychotherapy involves working with a trained mental health professional who helps people explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors, develop healthy coping skills, and improve their overall emotional well-being. Several types of psychotherapy are effective for mood disorders:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Behavioral activation
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT)

Psychopharmacological management — Psychopharmacological management, or medication management, can play an essential role in managing the symptoms of mood disorders, particularly moderate to severe depression and bipolar disorder. Different classes of medications are used, often in combination with psychotherapy:

• Antidepressants
• Mood stabilizers
• Antipsychotics

Mood disorders can have a profound impact on all aspects of a person’s life. However, with timely and appropriate intervention, people can experience significant symptom relief, improve their functioning and lead fulfilling lives. Early intervention is critical for several reasons, as it can:

• Reduce the duration and severity of episodes
• Prevent the development of co-occurring mental health conditions
• Minimize the negative impact on relationships, work and school
• Improve the likelihood of successful long-term management
• Empower individuals to take an active role in their recovery

If you or someone you care about is experiencing persistent symptoms of a mood disorder, please reach out for help. There is hope and effective treatment available. You don’t have to navigate the ups and downs alone.

At Guidelight Health, we understand the complexities of mood disorders and are committed to providing personalized and evidence-based care to help support you on your journey toward a brighter tomorrow and future. Our treatment approach integrates a variety of evidence-based therapeutic techniques and program options to help meet your individual needs. 

Treatment techniques we use to help address mood disorders include:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) — Our experienced therapists use CBT to help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop healthy coping skills, and build resilience against mood fluctuations. We focus on practical strategies you can add to your daily life to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. 

Behavioral activation — We work with you to reengage in meaningful activities and routines that can help boost your mood and sense of purpose. We aim to counteract the withdrawal and apathy often associated with depressive episodes by strategically increasing positive experiences.

At Guidelight, we offer a variety of programs for mood disorders:

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — Our IOP provides a structured and supportive environment for people who need more intensive treatment than traditional weekly therapy. Our IOP involves three sessions per week, including both individual and group therapy, and can include medication management if needed. Our IOP allows you to receive customized and comprehensive care while still maintaining aspects of your daily life, offering a flexible path toward stabilization and recovery. 

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) — For people who need a higher level of care, our PHP offers a full-day, intensive treatment experience five days a week. This program provides a comprehensive range of therapeutic modalities, including individual and group therapy, medication management, and other supportive services. Our PHP is designed to provide significant support and structure for those with more severe symptoms or those needing a more intensive level of intervention.

Mood disorders, such as major depressive disorder, can significantly disrupt your daily life, affecting your emotional well-being and stability. 

Our specialized programs are designed to address various types of mood disorders by shaping treatment to your specific needs. Whether you are struggling with persistent sadness, mood swings or a combination of emotions, our compassionate team is here to support you on your journey toward emotional balance and fulfillment. 

Together, we will navigate the challenges of mood disorders, empowering you to embrace life with renewed positivity and hope. 

Everyone has a seat at Guidelight. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial evaluation.