Mood Disorders Treatment

Common Mood Disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities. It affects about 7% of adults in the United States. 
• Bipolar Disorder: Involves alternating periods of elevated mood (mania or hypomania) and depression. It affects approximately 2.8% of adults and can cause significant disruptions in life. 
• Persistent Depressive Disorder: Formerly known as dysthymia, this disorder involves chronic depressive symptoms that last for at least two years. 
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Occurs with the change of seasons, typically in winter, and is characterized by depressive symptoms related to decreased sunlight exposure. 
• Substance-Induced Mood Disorder: Resulting from the effects of substances such as drugs or alcohol on mood regulation. 
• Postpartum Depression and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Mood disorders specific to women, occurring after childbirth and during certain phases of the menstrual cycle, respectively. 

Along with mood disorders, many people struggle with anxiety disorders. While feelings of anxiety are normal, when they become extreme and interfere with a person’s everyday life there is a problem. With anxiety treatment, the severity of their symptoms can be decreased, and people can learn to manage the remaining symptoms. 

What Causes Mood Disorders? 

Biological factors significantly influence mood disorders, as evidenced by brain imaging studies revealing enlarged amygdala in affected individuals, with critical brain areas like the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex playing pivotal roles in emotional regulation. Genetic predisposition also plays a role, as those with a familial history of mood disorders are more vulnerable, suggesting a hereditary component. Environmental factors, such as stressful life events (like loss, chronic stress, trauma, and childhood abuse), further increase the risk, particularly for depression. Additionally, depression has links to chronic illnesses such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and heart disease, underscoring the intricate relationship between mental and physical health. 

Life's challenges, including daily stress and sleep deprivation, can profoundly impact mood. While common mood fluctuations are normal, depression signifies an inability to function due to persistent mood disturbances. Various factors contribute to mood disorders, including brain chemistry imbalances and triggering life events. Family history often predisposes individuals to bipolar disorder and depression. This complex interplay highlights the need for comprehensive understanding and personalized approaches in managing mood disorders effectively. 

How to Treat Mood Disorders & Anxiety 

Not only are we all unique, but anxiety and mood disorders fall on a wide spectrum. An effective anxiety or mood disorder treatment plan should consider the individual’s needs and be altered as necessary as the patient’s needs change. 

Affective disorder treatment will depend largely on the specific mood disorder but will also be influenced by other factors such as occurring disorders or past trauma. Similarly, the specific anxiety disorder will help determine what treatment will be most effective, but individual differences should also be addressed. 

Treatment for mood disorders and anxiety typically involves a multifaceted approach combining therapy and medications such as SSRIs, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics. Therapy options include individual and group psychotherapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and reality therapy, which empower patients to gain insights into their conditions and develop effective coping strategies. These therapeutic interventions are complemented by specific medications aimed at alleviating symptoms and promoting stability in daily life. 

Because some people with anxiety or mood disorders will turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate, it is not uncommon for these people to also develop a substance use disorder. In this case, a co-occurring disorder treatment plan should be created to address both problems during treatment.