Mood Disorders

Mood disorders – defined by intense periods of sadness, elevated moods, or a combination of both - are mental health conditions that disrupt someone’s emotional state. According to Barbara Doak, LCSW, who offers telehealth to Ashford, Hartford, Manchester, and the rest of Connecticut, mood disorders often affect a person’s daily relationships and detrimentally influence one’s quality of life.

Types of Mood Disorders

Common mood disorders include-

• Major Depressive Disorder
  Persistent or chronic feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. In more severe instances, suicidal ideation may occur. Symptoms, usually present for a minimum of two weeks, may include interruptions in sleep, appetite, energy levels, and concentration.

• Bipolar Disorder
  This refers to extreme mood swings between depressive episodes and manic (elevated or irritable) episodes. More specifically -

• Bipolar I: at least one manic episode that may be preceded or followed by depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II: less severe manic episodes and at least one major depressive episode.
• Cyclothymic Disorder refers to a milder bipolar disorder that has alternating periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms.

Other types of mood disorders include -

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder involves mood swings (irritability or depression prior to a menstrual period.
• Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs on an annual basis, typically in seasons with low sunlight.

Mood Disorders - Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of mood disorders vary by person but are influenced by a combination of genetic, psychological, biological, and environmental factors, including:

1. A family history.
2. Imbalances in brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) like serotonin and dopamine.
3. Life events (abuse, loss, chronic stress, etc.) can be triggers.
4. Chronic illness, hormonal changes, or neurological disorders.
5. Alcohol and drug use can worsen or trigger moodiness.

Treatment for Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are treatable with proper care. Intervening early can greatly enhance the quality of life for those affected, but it’s never too late. Treating or managing mood disorders often involves a combination of therapy, lifestyle, and coping strategy changes-

• Psychotherapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Lifestyle Changes
  • Regular physical activity
  • Healthy eating
  • Getting enough sleep
  • Self-Soothing
• Coping Strategies
  • Building a support system of family and friends.
  • Engaging in relaxation techniques.
  • Tracking mood changes to help identify patterns or triggers.

Various medications stabilize mood regulation and offer depressive symptom relief.

Contact a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who provides online services to Hartford, Manchester, and the rest of Connecticut.

Barbara E. Doak, LCSW, is a Certified Co-Occurring Disorder Professional Diplomat, meaning she is recognized by Connecticut’s licensing board as able to help people whose mood disorders occur alongside other challenges, such as substance abuse disorders and trauma. For more information, contact 860-942-6316 or online.