Identifying The Symptoms of a Mood Disorder

The word ‘depression’ almost always brings to mind images of acute sadness or inactivity — and while that is not necessarily inaccurate, the symptoms of depression are more nuanced than that. What’s more, these symptoms often overlap with signs of a bad mood, making it harder to ascertain when one is going through actual depression. This could lead to the patient going untreated, resulting in serious consequences in the future. Depression is a kind of mood disorder and may need medical intervention. Let’s now understand mood disorders as a whole, and how to identify their symptoms. What is Mood Disorder? Mood disorders are identified by a major change in mood that causes disturbance to life activities. The three major states in mood disorders are defined as: depressive, manic, and bipolar. A person who frequently oscillates between depressive and manic states may be suffering from bipolar mood disorders. Mood disorders often vary in intensity, and the common types include: ● Major depression is characterized by less than normal interest in regular activities, and a lack of focus and energy for at least two weeks. Premenopausal women are the group most affected by major depression, and roughly 20 percent of women will have a depressive incident at some point in their lives, compared to 10 percent of men. Research also suggests that in some women, reproductive-related hormonal changes can raise the risk of having depression. ● Dysthymia (chronic depression) is chronic, low-grade depressed or irritable mood lasting for at least two years. Symptoms include low self esteem, feelings of hopelessness, irritability, inability to concentrate, and more. ● Bipolar disorder is marked by periods of depression alternating with periods of mania or elevated mood. While the median age for the onset of the disorder is approximately 25, it is also seen in the 40-50 age group. ● Cyclothymic disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder. Individuals facing this disorder can typically function on a day-to-day basis without the disorder interfering with their lives. Periods of highs and lows usually do not come and go as quickly as they do with bipolar disorder. ● Substance-induced mood disorders are caused by abusing substances like alcohol, drugs, or medications. Conversely, stopping the usage of alcohol, drugs, or medications can also result in a mood disorder. Using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate a mood disorder creates a vicious cycle that can reinforce symptoms. ● Health-related mood disorders are triggered by medical conditions and poor health, often seen among people with chronic disabilities. A sedentary lifestyle and obesity can also contribute to the onset of depression and other mood disorders. Common symptoms of mood disorders include: ● Irritability, aggression or hostility ● An ongoing sad, empty, or anxious mood ● Difficulty concentrating ● Having chronically low energy levels ● Losing interest in previously enjoyable activities ● Feeling monotonous and lacking motivation ● Loss of appetite or overeating ● Experiencing sleep disruptions, such as insomnia or oversleeping ● Frequently feeling sad or low ● Turning to alcohol or drugs The above symptoms can vary in intensity and last for different periods of time. They may also interfere with the ability to work or have quality time with friends and family. That being said, even when a person can perform day-to-day tasks, they should still look out for help if they experience mood disorders. Neuropsychiatric disorders treatment can help the person avoid turning to unhealthy coping tools like alcohol or drugs and exacerbating mood disorder symptoms. Treatment

Typical treatments include antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on developing coping strategies and changing unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. Of the antidepressants, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like escitalopram are most commonly prescribed. Various studies show that a neuropsychiatric disorders treatment and therapy is the most effective way to treat mood disorders. Proper sleep is also critical while being treated for a mood disorder. Interrupted sleep can be a trigger for bipolar disorder and depression. Normalizing and protecting sleep is very important. If you don’t notice mood improvement on medication right away, remember that it does get better. Most people need to be on a full dose of medication for up to eight weeks before seeing benefits, so be sure to hold on.