Mood disorders are a type of mental illness that can cause a person to experience extreme changes in mood. These mood swings can be so severe that they interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily life.
If you or someone you know has been experiencing any signs of mood disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Prairie Recovery is a rehabilitation and treatment center that specializes in mood disorder treatment. We offer a variety of services that can help you or your loved one get back on track.
What Is a Mood Disorder?
A mood disorder is a mental health condition that causes a person to experience extreme or abnormal emotional states. These emotional states can include sadness, anxiety, irritability, and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
The lows can be just as intense as the highs, and a person may feel out of control or unable to cope. A mood disorder is not a passing mood or “blues.” It is a serious medical condition that requires treatment by a mental health professional.
Types of Mood Disorders
There are different types of mood disorders, and each has its own set of symptoms. However, there are some common signs that may indicate a mood disorder.
- Major depressive disorder—This is the most common type of mood disorder. People with major depressive disorder experience persistent feelings of sadness and emptiness. They may also lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed and have difficulty concentrating. Major depressive disorder can interfere with a person’s ability to work, study, and maintain relationships.
- Bipolar disorder—Characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder may swing from feeling very happy and energized (known as a manic episode) to feeling very sad and hopeless (known as a depressive episode).
- Cyclothymic disorder—A less severe form of bipolar disorder. People with cyclothymic disorder experience mood swings, but these swings are not as extreme as the ones experienced by people with bipolar disorder.
- Dysthymic disorder—Considered a chronic form of depression. People with dysthymic disorder may not have the same intensity of symptoms as people with major depressive disorder, but their symptoms last for a longer period of time.
- Substance-induced mood disorder—This type of mood disorder is caused by the use of drugs or alcohol. The symptoms of a substance-induced mood disorder will go away when the person stops using the substance.
There is no single cause of mood disorders. Rather, they are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Signs of Mood Disorder
Mood disorders can be difficult to identify because the signs can vary so much from person to person. However, there are some common signs of mood disorder that may indicate that a person is struggling. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following, it’s important to seek professional help.
- Extreme mood swings—Feeling very happy one moment and very sad the next.
- Irritability—Feeling easily annoyed or angered.
- Loss of interest in activities—No longer enjoying activities that were once enjoyable.
- Difficulty concentrating—Having trouble focusing or paying attention.
- Changes in sleep or appetite—Sleeping more or less than usual or having changes in appetite.
Mood disorders are treatable, but they can be difficult to diagnose. If you think you or someone you know may have a mood disorder, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
Symptoms of Mood Disorder
The symptoms of a mood disorder can vary depending on the type of disorder. However, symptoms of mood disorder can include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Stomach problems
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger
- Irritability
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs and symptoms of mood disorder, it is important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
Find Effective Mood Disorder Treatment at Prairie Recovery Center
Our team of mental health professionals can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine the best course of treatment. We offer both partial hospitalization and outpatient treatment options, and we also offer an inpatient program for those who need a higher level of care.
No matter what your situation is, we are here to help. Please call us at 844.979.4310 to speak with a member of our team or fill out our online form.