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December 14, 2023

Mood Disorders: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Deal with Them

Our mood can be triggered or changed by various reasons and such swings can last from a few minutes to a few hours. However, sometimes, they can last for days and can lead to bigger issues. This kind of a mood swing is recognised in psychology as a mood disorder.

Mood disorders have a significant impact on human emotions and go beyond temporary changes. Understanding mood disorders, from subtle sadness to severe depression and bipolar disorder, requires empathy, knowledge, and effective coping techniques.

In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at mood disorders.

Understanding Mood Disorders

Mood disorders are intense, lasting, and significantly affect daily life. People with mood disorders experience extreme emotional highs and lows for long periods at regular intervals. There can be long periods of anger, sadness or stress that can affect one’s quality of life.

The most common types of mood disorders are bipolar disorder and depression. We will take a deeper look at these later in this article.

Mood Swings vs Mood Disorders

Key differences between mood swings and mood disorders lie in their intensity, duration, and impact on daily functioning.

Regular mood swings are short-lived and triggered by external events, while mood disorders involve prolonged emotional disturbance that lasts for weeks, months, or even years.
Mood disorders greatly impact various aspects of life, hindering a person’s ability to maintain routines and fulfil responsibilities. Mood swings are often caused by external factors, while mood disorders have more complex origins.
Regular mood swings are normal and responsive to changes in circumstances, while mood disorders involve extreme emotional states like depression or bipolar disorder.
Regular mood swings occur sporadically and can resolve on their own or in response to changes, whereas mood disorders are consistent over time and have recurring episodes.

The spectrum: Delving into depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, and related conditions

Two major categories within the spectrum of mood disorders are depressive disorders and bipolar disorders, each presenting its own unique challenges.

Depressive Disorders

Depressive disorder or more commonly depression is a common mental disorder which leads to loss of interest or pleasure in activities for long periods. People suffering from depression experience changes in mood every day, maybe several times a day. According to WHO, 3.8% of the world’s population experience depression at some point in their life.

Depressive disorder can generally be of three types:

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Marked by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest. Symptoms include fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty concentrating, and suicidal thoughts. MDD affects daily life, relationships, and overall well-being.

2. Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

A chronic mild to moderate depression that lasts at least two years. It has symptoms similar to MDD but is less severe and more long-lasting. It causes persistent feelings of inadequacy and low energy, impacting well-being.

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

It is a type of winter depression that leads to fatigue, weight gain, oversleeping, and low mood. It disrupts routines and activities.

Bipolar Disorders

The second common mood disorder is bipolar disorder where someone may experience extreme emotional highs (mania) or lows (depression). The person feels sad and hopeless when they are depressed, but when they go through the mania phase, they are full of energy and euphoric and unusually irritable.

These episodes of mood swings affect their day-to-day life including sleep, activity, judgement, energy, behaviour and the ability to think clearly.

There are primarily two types of Bipolar disorder:

1. Bipolar I Disorder

A mental illness marked by alternating episodes of mania and depression. It can cause extreme mood swings and impaired judgement. This condition significantly affects daily life and relationships. This kind of bipolar disorder is mainly treated using mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, therapy, and lifestyle management.

2. Bipolar II Disorder

This is characterised by cycling between depressive and less severe hypomanic episodes, which can impair functioning. Treatment options include mood stabilisers, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.

Other Related Conditions

Apart from the above two, a few more conditions are categorised as mood disorders:

Cyclothymic Disorder

This is a chronic mood disturbance involving hypomanic and depressive symptoms. It is less severe than bipolar disorder but more persistent and can have a subtle yet pervasive impact on daily functioning. This is usually treated with mood stabilisers, therapy, and routine monitoring.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

This disorder mainly affects children, causing intense temper outbursts and ongoing irritability, resulting in frequent tantrums. It negatively affects their social, academic, and family functioning. Treatment involves therapy, behaviour management, and family support.

Causes of Mood Disorders

Now let us look at some factors that cause mood disorders:

Biological Factors

1. Genetic Predispositions

Understanding hereditary links is crucial for early identification, intervention, and personalised treatment approaches.

Family History: Individuals with a family history of mood disorders have a higher risk. Genetic factors play a role in these conditions, highlighting the need to study familial patterns.
Twin and Adoption Studies: Research with twins and adopted individuals reveals valuable insights about the heritability of mood disorders. Twin studies consistently demonstrate a higher concordance rate in identical twins, indicating a genetic factor.
Candidate Genes: Researchers have identified certain genes linked to mood disorders. These gene variations can affect vulnerability, treatment response, and the progression of mood disorders.
Polygenic Risk Scores: Advancements in genetic research have resulted in the development of polygenic risk scores. These scores evaluate an individual’s genetic vulnerability by considering multiple genetic markers. They enhance our understanding of genetic involvement in mood disorders.
Gene-Environment Interactions: The interplay between genetics and environmental factors is crucial. Genetic predispositions may interact with life events, influencing the likelihood and timing of mood disorder onset.

2. Neurochemical imbalances

Neurochemical imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are central to the understanding of mood disorders.

Serotonin: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression, highlighting the significance of SSRIs, which boost serotonin levels.
Dopamine: Dopamine is important for pleasure, reward, and motivation. Imbalances in dopamine are connected to mood disorders like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Antipsychotic medications often focus on dopamine receptors.
Norepinephrine: Norepinephrine affects focus and wakefulness. Imbalances are linked to mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder. Certain antidepressants help increase norepinephrine levels.
Imbalances and Mood Disorders: Imbalances in neurotransmitters can cause mood disorders. Low serotonin levels are linked to depression, while high levels can cause anxiety and agitation.

Who is at Risk of Developing a Mood Disorder?

Well, we all feel sad or depressed sometimes. However, mood disorders extend beyond it. Mood disorders may be hereditary. Once a person is diagnosed with mood disorder, their immediate family including children have a higher chance of being diagnosed with this disorder. Children of parents who have been diagnosed with depression are also at a higher risk of developing mood disorders.

Certain life events such as the loss of a job, loss of a loved one, financial trouble and such incidents can also be a trigger for mood disorders.

Common Symptoms of Mood Disorders

Different people experience different symptoms of mood disorders. The most common symptoms are:

A feeling of helplessness or hopelessness
Ongoing anxiety, sad or empty mood
Low self-esteem
Excessive guilt
Feeling of worthlessness

Loss of interest in activities otherwise the person used to enjoy
Sleeping too little or too much
Decreased energy
Trouble in concentrating
Changes in weight or appetite

Difficulty in making decisions
Physical discomfort such as headache or stomach ache
Heightened sensitivity, especially to failure or rejection
Running away from home
Irritability, aggression or hostility

How are Mood Disorders Treated?

For obtaining the correct treatment, professional evaluation for mood disorders is crucial. It ensures accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment planning, and access to specialised interventions, facilitating the best possible outcomes in managing and improving mental health.

From the medical point of view, mood disorders are usually treated using antidepressants, mood stabilisers, and antipsychotic medications which aim to address neurotransmitter imbalances by adjusting their activity, to reduce symptoms and achieve emotional stability.

Another proven treatment option is therapy. Usually, the following therapy options are used to treat mood disorders:

Cognitive-behavioural therapy: A widely utilised therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours to promote emotional well-being and alleviate symptoms associated with mood disorders.
Psychoanalysis: This therapeutic approach, based on an approach developed by Sigmund Freud, explores unconscious thoughts and emotions, aiming to uncover and address deep-seated psychological conflicts, contributing to a person’s emotional and mental well-being.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Interpersonal Therapy is a time-limited psychotherapy that focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills to alleviate symptoms of mood disorders, emphasising the connection between interpersonal conflicts and emotional well-being.
Psychodynamic Therapy: Psychodynamic therapy is a therapeutic approach that explores unconscious thoughts and past experiences to understand how they influence present behaviour, emotions, and relationships, foster self-awareness and address underlying psychological conflicts often associated with mood disorders.

Lifestyle and Coping Strategies

Lifestyle plays a significant role in coping with mood disorders. Let us look at some lifestyle aspects to understand the role in a better manner:

The Role of Diet and Exercise in Mood Regulation

Nutrient Intake: A well-balanced diet with omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, and amino acids is crucial for optimal brain function. These nutrients help produce and regulate neurotransmitters, which affect mood.
Blood Sugar Levels: Stable sugar levels are crucial for maintaining mood stability as fluctuations can cause irritability, fatigue, and mood swings. The key to stabilising sugar is to consume regular, balanced meals with a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Gut-Brain Connection: The gut microbiome affecting mental health is key. A healthy gut helps produce serotonin, which boosts mood. Probiotics and fibre-rich diets aid gut health.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Avoid consuming too many sugary and caffeinated drinks.
Endorphin Release: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that act as natural mood lifters. This can result in feelings of euphoria and reduced perception of pain.
Neurotransmitter Regulation: Exercise regulates neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are involved in mood regulation. Imbalances in these neurotransmitters are linked to depression and anxiety.

Social Engagement is a Key Factor in Promoting Mental Well-Being

Cultivate Relationships: Investing time and effort in building and maintaining meaningful relationships with friends, family, and colleagues can be helpful.
Join Communities: Participating in clubs, organisations, or community groups with common interests can provide a sense of belonging.
Active Listening: Practise active listening during conversations, demonstrating genuine interest and empathy.
Balancing Online and Offline Interaction: While online connections are valuable, prioritise face-to-face interactions for a deeper sense of connection.
Initiate and Respond: Take the initiative to reach out to others, and be responsive when others seek connection. Reciprocity is key to maintaining social bonds.

A Final Word

As we journey through the intricate web of mood disorders, it becomes clear that understanding, empathy, and effective strategies are essential companions. By unravelling the layers of causation, symptoms, and coping mechanisms, we can foster a society that supports individuals navigating the storm within and works collectively to destigmatize mental health challenges.

In embracing this collective responsibility, we empower ourselves and others to seek the help and understanding needed for a brighter, emotionally resilient future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 5 mood disorders?

The five major mood disorders are:
– Major depressive disorder
– Bipolar disorder
– Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
– Cyclothymic disorder
– Seasonal affective disorder

What are examples of mood disorders?

Major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and cyclothymic disorder are some of the examples of mood disorders. Each of these is characterised by distinct patterns of mood disturbances.

What are the symptoms of mood disorder?

Symptoms of mood disorders may include persistent changes in mood, energy levels, sleep patterns, concentration, and the ability to enjoy daily activities.

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