Mood disorders are mental health conditions that cause severe disruption in a person’s mood. These disorders can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life, making it challenging to function at work or home. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 21.4 percent of American adults will develop a mood disorder at some point in their lives.
Mood disorders can be broadly divided into two categories: depressive disorders and bipolar disorders. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the five most common types of mood disorders: major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and substance-induced mood disorder.
- Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder, also known as clinical depression, is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness that lasts for two weeks or longer. People with major depression may also experience changes in appetite, sleep patterns, energy levels, and concentration.
Major depressive disorder can be debilitating, making it difficult to carry out everyday activities. Fortunately, major depressive disorder is treatable with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
- Dysthymia (Dysthymic disorder)
Dysthymia is a less severe form of depression that lasts at least two years. People with dysthymia may not experience the same dramatic symptoms as those with major depressive disorder, but they may still have trouble functioning normally on a day-to-day basis. Dysthymia is normally treated with medication, therapy, and self-care.
- Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternations between periods of mania and periods of depression. Mania is a state of high energy and feelings of euphoria, while depression is a state of low energy and feelings of sadness. During manic episodes, people with bipolar disorder may engage in risky behaviors, such as irresponsible spending and reckless driving. Bipolar disorder can be very disruptive to a person’s life and can even lead to suicide if left untreated.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more severe and debilitating extension of the more well-known premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that affects up to 5 percent of reproductive-aged women. PMDD is characterized by physical and emotional symptoms that occur during the week before menstruation and resolve within a few days after menstruation starts.
Symptoms of PMDD include severe mood swings, irritability, sadness, anxiety, fatigue, bloating, and breast tenderness. PMDD is treated with medication and therapy. In some cases, lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress reduction may also be helpful.
- Substance-Induced Mood Disorder
Substance-induced mood disorder is a type of mood disorder caused by the use of drugs or alcohol (substances). Symptoms of substance-induced mood disorder can include euphoria, irritability, paranoia, and delusions. A substance-induced mood disorder can be treated by stopping the use of the substance(s) causing the symptoms. In some cases, medications may also be necessary to manage symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Mood disorders are psychiatric conditions that involve drastic changes in mood and affect. These disorders can take different shapes and can severely impact a person’s quality of life, making it hard to function at work or home.
There are many different types of mood disorders, but the five most common are major depressive disorder, dysthymia, bipolar disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and substance-induced mood disorder. If you think you may have a mood disorder, it’s important to see a professional and get the help you need.
