Nearly everyone has moments where they experience the blues or just emotionally feel “off.” In most cases, people can cope with their feelings, find a resolution, and feel much more like themselves. For some people, “the blues” are more difficult to shake. Their feelings of depression, loneliness, and unworthiness can handcuff them to the point where it interferes with their daily functioning and their interactions with others. In these cases, these people are likely to experience a mood disorder.
This article outlines the symptoms of a mood disorder and the course of treatment best in treating this often-debilitating disorder. If you notice the signs of a mood disorder in yourself or a loved one, professional and compassionate treatment will give you the tools and support you need to break free. The Berman Center is Atlanta’s premier outpatient mental health treatment center. Our evidence-based programs will help you overcome mood disorders and move towards a happier and healthier life.
Call The Berman Center today and start the healing process.
What Are Mood Disorders?
In simple terms, mood disorders are mental health conditions that significantly impact a person’s functioning on an emotional level. People experiencing mood disorders experience extreme happiness, extreme sadness, or cycling between the two. Common mood disorders people experience include the following:
- Major depressive disorder — prolonged and persistent periods of extreme sadness
- Bipolar disorder — also called manic depression or bipolar affective disorder, depression that includes alternating times of depression and extreme happiness (mania)
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — a form of depression most often associated with fewer hours of daylight in the far northern and southern latitudes from late fall to early spring
- Cyclothymic disorder — a disorder that causes emotional ups and downs that are less extreme than bipolar disorder
The causes of mood disorders are varied and often the culmination of many factors. One of the major factors is a family history of mental illness. Major life events such as job loss, divorce, death in the family, or suicide also are major risk factors. People who abuse drugs and alcohol are also more likely to develop a mood disorder.
What Are The Symptoms of a Mood Disorder?
The symptoms of a mood disorder can vary in severity due to several factors. These can include age, the type of mood disorder one experiences, and any co-occurring mental or physical health issues. The common signs of a mood disorder include the following:
- Constant feelings of sadness or anxiousness
- Overwhelming sense of hopelessness
- Low self-worth or feeling inadequate
- Relationship problems
- Loss of interest in activities that once brought pleasure
- Excessive guilt
- Sleep issues
Additional mood disorder symptoms also include:
- Sudden and dramatic changes in weight
- Lack of energy
- Inability to focus and make decisions
- Chronic stomachaches, headaches, and other pains
- Increased irritability, agitation, and unpredictable swings in mood
- Thoughts of suicide
It is important to note that the symptoms of a mood disorder often overlap with other mental health conditions. Because of that, it is crucial to seek professional help and receive a comprehensive evaluation to get a proper diagnosis.
What is The Most Effective Treatment for Mood Disorders?
When the signs of mood disorder are detected, finding effective and evidence-based treatment becomes a top priority. A huge component of mood disorder treatment is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or other forms of talk therapy. CBT helps clients focus on the distorted and unhealthy thinking patterns that keep them stuck. Once identified, clients can learn new and healthier coping skills that help them change their patterns of thinking.
In addition to therapy, the use of anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications can be very helpful in people dealing with mood disorders. While effective, these medications are very potent and must be prescribed with strict oversight by experienced treatment personnel. An additional and equally crucial component of mood disorder treatment is family therapy. The family as a unit bears the brunt of a mood disorder emotionally, physically, and financially. Family therapy helps the family heal and provides a safe and nurturing environment for those who suffer from mood disorders to heal.
Your Struggles With Mood Disorders Ends Today
If you are looking for mood disorder treatment, your options seem endless, and it can be an overwhelming process. Fortunately, the help and compassionate support you need is just a phone call away. Located in Sandy Springs, GA, The Berman Center has earned a reputation for providing both teens and adults high-quality mental health and substance abuse treatment that produces results. Our evidence-based programs are personalized to fit each client’s needs.
Our intensive outpatient program in Atlanta ensures that you receive the care you need while allowing you to live at home and receive support and love from your family and friends. Make today the day you rise above your mood disorder; call The Berman Center and start your journey toward healing, health, and happiness.
