Mood disorders are more common than you might think. The 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health report shows that 17.5% of people aged 18-25 had a major depressive episode in the past year. According to a 2023 JAMA journal review, life expectancy is lowered by approximately 12-14 years in people with bipolar disorder.
This indicates an urgency for adequate care for treating mood disorders. Because of the various types of mood disorders, this requires tailored approaches to all. First, let’s look at the different types:
Depression refers to a persistent low mood that can make daily life more challenging.
Bipolar disorders include major mood swings, from emotional highs, known as mania, to depressive lows.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can manifest this severe form, known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Drastic mood swings, irritability, and depression can occur 1-2 weeks before menstruation.
Typically diagnosed in children, this involves persistent irritability and repeated intense temper outbursts. This condition requires professional help to correctly manage as it can’t simply be chalked up to a child being “moody.”
There is a vast array of causes connected to the different mood disorders. Usually, causes are a complicated interplay of factors that need professional care to address.
Hormonal shifts like during pregnancy or menopause can trigger mood disorders.
If you have a family history of mood disorders, the chance of you developing one is more likely. While it’s not a guarantee, it can make you more vulnerable to certain triggers.
At Aftermath Behavioral Health, MA, we favor a holistic approach to make managing mood disorder symptoms achievable. With our mood disorder treatment, you can learn coping skills like mindfulness and stress management. We aim to help you recognize symptoms early and intervene effectively. You can expect:
Living with a mood disorder can feel emotionally overwhelming and physically draining. At Aftermath Behavioral Health, we can provide compassionate, curated care that addresses individual needs and goals. Our team uses evidence-based and wellness methods to give you a comprehensive approach to improve your mental health. To learn more about our mood disorder treatment programs, reach out today.
The most common mood disorders are major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar disorders.
Diagnosis for mood disorders involves a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional. This often includes a detailed interview and sometimes psychological tests.
To help a loved one get through the tough times, you can offer emotional support, encourage professional help, and learn about their condition. This helps you understand what they’re going through and shows them that they have you there for them.
A combination of psychotherapy and behavioral methods helps ensure a mood disorder is treated thoroughly. It addresses mental, physical, and emotional health effectively. Since treatment should be tailored for the best outcome, sometimes medication may be included if deemed necessary.
Mood disorders are often chronic. Luckily, proper treatment can significantly lessen symptoms. This gives individuals a better quality of life through valuable coping skills and symptom management.
