Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions characterized by significant disturbances in a person’s emotional state. These disorders can affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. The most common types of mood disorders include:

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

• Symptoms: Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide.

2. Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar I: Manic episodes lasting at least 7 days or severe enough to require hospitalization, often accompanied by depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II: Pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (less severe than full manic episodes).

3. Cyclothymic Disorder: Chronic fluctuating mood disturbances involving periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents).

• Symptoms: Manic episodes may include elevated mood, increased energy, reduced need for sleep, grandiosity, and risky behavior. Depressive episodes are similar to those in MDD.

4. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

• Symptoms: Chronic depression lasting for at least 2 years (1 year in children and adolescents). Symptoms may not be as severe as MDD but are long-lasting.

5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

• Symptoms: Depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually during the winter months when there is less natural sunlight.

6. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

• Symptoms: Severe mood swings, irritability, depression, and anxiety that occur in the week or two before menstruation and improve shortly after menstruation begins.

7. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

• Symptoms: Severe and recurrent temper outbursts that are grossly out of proportion in intensity or duration to the situation. Persistent irritability or anger between outbursts.

8. Substance/Medication-Induced Mood Disorder

• Symptoms: Mood disturbances (depression or mania) that are a direct result of substance use, medication, or exposure to toxins.
• Causes and Risk Factors

1. Biological Factors: Genetics, brain chemistry, and hormonal imbalances.
2. Environmental Factors: Stress, trauma, and significant life changes.
3. Psychological Factors: Personality traits and coping styles.

9. Treatment Options

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and other forms of counseling.
• Medications: Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications.
• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, healthy diet, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques.
• Other Treatments: Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and light therapy for SAD.

When to Seek Help: If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder that interfere with daily life, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Early intervention can improve outcomes and quality of life.

Emergency Help: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of self-harm or suicide, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

Understanding and addressing mood disorders is crucial for improving mental health and overall well-being.

For Consultation, Expert opinion and treatment, feel free to consult Dr. Naveed Javed at Omer Diagnostic Center, Capital Business Center, G-8 Markaz, Islamabad, Pakistan.