Within this category are several groups of conditions with similar characteristics.
Two of the major groups aredepressive disordersandbipolar disorders.
Within each group are subtypes with specific treatments and diagnostic criteria.
Postpartum depression andpremenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)are two examples of a depressive disorder subtype.
This article describes the two major categories of mood disorders, including their causes, symptoms, and treatments.
What Are Mood Disorders?
Mood disorders are not the same as changes in mood.
Classifying subtypes is important because they direct the appropriate treatment based on your specific symptoms.
There are also specifiers that describe the degree of mania or depression symptoms.
Chemical Imbalances
Neurons are the nerve cells of the brain andnervous system.
Neurons communicate with substances known as neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters are also involved in the regulation of moods.
Several neurotransmitters are involved in mood disorders, includingserotoninandnorepinephrine.
Lower levels of these may contribute to mood disorders.
Brain Structure
Brain structure is also believed to play a role in depression.
Researchers have found one area in the brain, called the hippocampus, is smaller in people with MDD.
They believe that extended, ongoing exposure to stress hormones hinders the growth of neurons within that brain region.
Other brain structures potentially involved in mood disorders include theamygdalaandthalamus.
Genetics
Genetics are a significant factor involved in the susceptibility of mood disorders.
Many mood disorders are known to run in families, including MDD and BPD.
Diagnosis
There is no single test used to diagnose a mood disorder.
Rather, a healthcare provider will conduct a psychiatric evaluation based on criteria outlined in the DSM-5.
This timeline can differ based on the subtype of depression you have.
Specialist procedures may be recommended for certain cases.
Treatments are individualized based on your diagnosis and the severity of your symptoms.
Medications
Various psychiatric medications are available for the treatment of various mood disorders.
They work in different ways to correct imbalances in neurotransmitters in the brain.
Affective disorders can touch every area of life, from relationships to careers to self-esteem to physical health.
However, it is possible to live well despite the difficulties that come with these types of mental disorders.
Joining a support group can help you feel less alone in your struggles as well.
Summary
Mood disorders are a group of mental conditions that adversely affect your emotional state.
This includes major depression disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BPD).
The treatment of mood disorders may involve medications, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
Specialist procedures may be needed for certain cases.
Datta S, Suryadevara, Cheong J.Mood Disorders.Continuum(Minneap Minn).
2021 Dec 1;27(6):1712-1737. doi:10.1212/CON.0000000000001051
National Institute of Mental Health.Depression.
National Institute of Mental Health.Any mood disorder.
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Bipolar disorder.
Harvard Health Publishing.What causes depression?
Melrose S.Seasonal affective disorder: an overview of assessment and treatment approaches.Depress Res Treat.2015;2015:178564. doi:10.1155/2015/178564
