Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, are a category of mental health issues that can significantly impact a person's everyday life and functioning. The most common types of mood disorders are major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) involves periods of extreme sadness, hopelessness, and lack of motivation that last for at least two weeks. Key symptoms include:
- Loss of interest in normal activities
- Change in appetite and sleep habits
- Lack of energy and constant fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide
Persistent depressive disorder is a long-lasting, chronic form of depression characterized by a depressed mood persisting for at least two years.
Bipolar disorder is associated with dramatic shifts in mood and energy levels. Someone with bipolar disorder oscillates between periods of mania (elevated mood and energy) and periods of depression.
"After struggling with years of mood instability, I finally got the help I needed from Balance Hormone Clinic. Their comprehensive hormone testing revealed an imbalance contributing to my mood swings. With their customized treatment plan, I'm feeling more emotionally balanced than I have in decades."
What causes mood disorders?
Research indicates mood disorders likely stem from a complex interaction of:
- Genetics and family history: Mood disorders tend to run in families
- Brain chemistry and structure: Imbalances in key neurotransmitters or structural differences seem to play a role
- Hormones: Fluctuating or abnormal hormone levels may contribute
- Early childhood experiences: Trauma and adverse experiences can raise risk
- Substance abuse: Alcohol or drug misuse is linked with higher rates of mood disorders
- Medical conditions: Conditions like thyroid disease, chronic pain, and others are associated
If you think you may be struggling with a mood disorder, don't hesitate to reach out for support. The compassionate team at
Balance Hormone Clinic offers cutting-edge testing to uncover potential hormonal influences along with evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. They accept most major insurance plans, and even provide financing options, so cost should never be a barrier to getting your life back.
I hope this overview on
mood disorders - what they are, common types, contributing factors, and treatment options - helps provide some insight. Remember, with proper care and management, many people find relief from even very severe mood disorder symptoms.
You deserve to feel emotionally healthy and stable again.