Types of Mood Disorders

A mood disorder is a blanket term used to describe the class of serious mental illnesses which includes all types of depression and bipolar disorders. Mood disorders primarily affect a person’s emotional state and can be disruptive to leading a normal life. If someone is struggling with depression or bipolar disorder, it would be best for them to get mood disorder treatment from a reputable facility.

Mood disorders, with the right treatment, can be very manageable. At San Antonio Recovery Center (SARC), we can provide patients with the proper care in order for them to live full, productive lives. We work with most insurance plans in order to give patients immediate access to our quality treatment programs. Call us at 866-957-7885 to learn more about mood disorders and how we can help.

What Are Mood Disorders?

Mood disorders, also called affective disorders, are characterized by long periods of excessive sadness, excessive joy or elation, or a combination of both. A number of factors contribute to developing a mood disorder, including:

• Genetics – Mood disorders tend to run in families. Someone who has a close relative who has a mood disorder is at a greater risk of developing one in the future.
• Stress or trauma – Certain stressful or traumatizing life events may act as a catalyst for developing a mood disorder.
• Abnormal brain chemistry – Patients who have been diagnosed with a mood disorder have been observed to have either too much or too little of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
• Substance abuse or alcoholism – Since the consumption of certain drugs and alcohol can alter a person’s brain chemistry, substance or alcohol abuse can lead to developing a mood disorder.

What Are the Common Types of Mood Disorders?

The most common types of mood disorders fall into two categories: major depressive disorders, or depression, and bipolar disorders. Depression is typically related to prolonged episodes of extreme sadness. On the other hand, bipolar disorder is typified by episodes of mania, with possible episodes of depression.

Depressive symptoms include prolonged feelings of sadness or hopelessness. It can also cause difficulties in concentrating, memory, sleeping, and appetite. Here are some common subtypes for major depressive disorders:

• Persistent depressive disorder – A chronic form of depression that lasts for at least two years.
• Seasonal affective disorder – A type of depression that is triggered by the seasons in the year. Late autumn to winter depression is more common than depression during spring or summer.
• Postpartum depression – A kind of depression that is triggered by experiencing hormonal, physical, emotional, financial, and social changes after having a child.

Bipolar disorder is characterized by the occurrence of fluctuating mood episodes referred to as manic/hypomanic and depressive episodes. Bipolar disorders have four basic types:

• Bipolar I – Patients who experience manic episodes. While some patients also experience depressive episodes, it isn't necessary for a bipolar I diagnosis.
• Bipolar II – Patients with bipolar II experience hypomanic episodes, which are less severe, instead of manic episodes. They also experience cyclical patterns of depression.
• Cyclothymia – Patients with cyclothymic disorder have chronically unstable moods that include episodes of hypomania and mild depression.
• Other specified or unspecified bipolar – This diagnosis is given to patients that have erratic, abnormal mood changes but don't fit into the criteria for other bipolar diagnoses.

Treatment For Mood Disorders

Effective treatment for mood disorders involves a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Each patient has different needs, so the treatment may differ from one person to another. However, here are some common approaches used in treating mood disorders:

• Medications – Antidepressants and mood stabilizers can help balance brain chemistry.
• Psychotherapy – Different forms of talk therapy can help patients learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage their mood disorder.
• Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise and a healthy diet can have a positive effect on brain chemistry. Avoiding drugs and alcohol is also crucial in managing mood disorders.

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mood disorder, don't hesitate to seek help. With the right treatment, it is possible to live a fulfilling and productive life. Talk to SARC today to learn more about our mood disorder treatment options and take the first step toward recovery.

Get Mood Disorders Treatment at San Antonio Recovery Center

It isn't uncommon for patients with mood disorders to self-medicate with illicit substances or alcohol. These co-occurring substance use disorders often complicate treatment plans. At SARC, we provide dual diagnosis treatments that address mental health conditions and any concurrent addictions. Our friendly and qualified staff provides holistic care to ensure success and long-term recovery.

While living with a mood disorder may seem daunting, managing the disease is possible with the correct medical interventions and supportive therapy. Call us at 866-957-7885 to learn more about what we can offer.