A quick guide to mood disorders

Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, are a group of conditions where a person's emotional state is distorted or inconsistent with their circumstances and interferes with their ability to function. These disorders are prevalent and can significantly impact one's quality of life. In her latest online article renowned clinical psychologist Dr Emily Hale provides patients with clear and concise information about mood disorders, their symptoms, and treatment options.

Common types of mood disorders

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

Major Depressive Disorder, often known simply as depression, is marked by a prolonged sense of sadness or a diminished interest in external activities. This condition impacts one's emotions, thoughts, and daily functioning.

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), often just called depression, is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. While it's commonly discussed in adults, it's important to recognize that children and adolescents can also experience depression.

MDD in Children and Adolescents

Depression in young people might not look exactly like it does in adults. Children and adolescents might show their sadness through irritability or anger, rather than seeming down or hopeless. They might also complain of physical ailments, refuse to go to school, or show drastic changes in their weight or sleeping patterns.

Common Signs in Children and Adolescents:

• Irritability or anger
• Instead of seeming sad, children might be excessively irritable.
• Frequent complaints of physical issues: These can include headaches or stomach-aches with no clear cause.
• Changes in behaviour: Noticeable drop in school performance, avoiding friends and social activities.
• Extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure: Unusually low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness.
• Appetite and weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss, or drastic changes in eating habits.
• Sleep disturbances: Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much. • Social withdrawal: Avoiding friends or family, preferring to be alone. Diagnosis in Children Diagnosing depression in children can be tricky. Younger children may not be able to articulate their feelings well. Adolescents might hide their feelings or be mistaken for typical teenage angst. It's important for parents, teachers, and healthcare providers to work together to spot the signs early. Studies show that early intervention is crucial. The sooner depression is identified and treated, the better the outcomes.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar Disorder is characterised by significant mood fluctuations, including depressive lows and manic highs. There are two primary forms of this disorder:

• Bipolar I disorder: This type is identified by manic episodes that persist for a minimum of seven days or by manic symptoms that are so intense they necessitate immediate hospitalisation.
• Bipolar II disorder: Characterised by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are less severe than manic episodes.

Dysthymia (Persistent depressive disorder)

Dysthymia is a chronic form of depression with symptoms that last for at least two years. It involves a continuous long-term (chronic) form of depression.

Cyclothymic disorder

Cyclothymic Disorder is a milder form of bipolar disorder involving numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and periods of depressive symptoms lasting for at least two years.

Symptoms of mood disorders

The symptoms of mood disorders can vary depending on the specific type of disorder but generally include:

Symptoms of major depressive disorder:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Changes in appetite and weight
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms of bipolar disorder:

• Manic phase:
  • Increased energy, activity, and restlessness
  • Excessively "high," overly good, euphoric mood
  • Extreme irritability
  • Racing thoughts, talking very fast, jumping from one idea to another
  • Distractibility, inability to concentrate
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Unrealistic beliefs in one's abilities and powers
  • Poor judgment
  • Spending sprees
• Depressive phase:
  • Sad, anxious, or empty mood
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
  • Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
  • Restlessness or irritability
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Symptoms of dysthymia and cyclothymia:

• Chronic depressive mood
• Low energy or fatigue
• Low self-esteem
• Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness

Treatments for mood disorders

Mood disorders are treatable, and several effective options are available:

Medications

• Antidepressants: Commonly used to treat depression and dysthymia. They can also be helpful in managing depressive episodes in bipolar disorder.
• Mood Stabilisers: Used primarily for bipolar disorder to control manic or hypomanic episodes.
• Antipsychotics: Sometimes used in combination with other medications to treat severe mood disorders.

Psychotherapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps patients recognise and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving communication and interpersonal relationships.
• Psychoeducation: Provides patients with information about their disorder and ways to manage it.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive Therapy is frequently employed for severe cases of depression that have not improved with other treatments. This procedure entails a short electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anaesthesia. ECT can provide rapid improvement in severe symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

• Regular exercise: Can improve mood and energy levels.
• Healthy diet: Balanced nutrition supports overall health and mood stability.
• Sleep hygiene: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule is crucial.
• Stress management: Techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can be beneficial.

Support groups

Support groups provide a platform for individuals to share experiences and receive mutual support, reducing feelings of isolation.

Mood disorders are serious but treatable conditions. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking early intervention can greatly improve outcomes. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder, consult a healthcare professional to explore the best treatment options.

Dr Emily Hale is a renowned clinical psychologist based in Exeter. If you would like to book a consultation with Dr Hale, you can do so today via her Top Doctors profile.