Mood Disorders

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders include three mental health conditions:

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

MDD causes depression (at least several symptoms listed below) nearly all day and every day for at least two weeks (and usually longer).

Postpartum depression (now called perinatal depression)

Though most people still refer to this condition as postpartum depression, which begins after delivery, its new name, perinatal depression, reflects the fact that MDD can also begin during pregnancy.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)

DMDD is diagnosed in children and teens when they have symptoms, such as anger and irritability, nearly every day and severe temper outbursts several times a week.

Bipolar disorders

There are three bipolar disorders: bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Bipolar I causes episodes of severe mania and MDD. If you have bipolar II, you have mood swings between MDD and hypomania (less severe mania symptoms).

Cyclothymic disorder causes mild depression and hypomania, yet it’s still a challenging condition that disrupts your life with frequent mood swings that continue for two years or longer.

What are the symptoms of mood disorders? 

During a depressive episode, you experience at least several of the following symptoms:

• Sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness
• Low energy (lethargy) and fatigue
• Isolation from family and friends
• No interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Changes in eating habits
• Insomnia or excessive sleep
• Suicidal thoughts 

If you have mania and hypomania, you may:

• Feel elated
• Talk rapidly
• Have nonstop energy
• Have an inflated sense of self-importance
• Experience racing thoughts
• Engage in risky behaviors (driving under the influence, overspending, etc.)

During manic episodes, people get very little sleep but still have boundless energy. If you have bipolar I disorder, you may experience delusions (false beliefs) and hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that aren’t there).

How are mood disorders treated?

Therapy improves the symptoms of all mood disorders. Whether you need therapy alone or with medication depends on your diagnosis.

You may need antidepressants for moderate to severe MDD. Medications are essential for treating bipolar disorders. Mood stabilizing medications stabilize your moods, and with regular use, they may prevent future mood swings.

Brooklyn Integrative Psychological Services completes a thorough neuropsychological evaluation. If they determine you need medication, they refer you to a specialist.

As therapy experts, they also provide holistic care, ensuring you get the care you need to support your physical health, offer nutritional recommendations, and treat insomnia.

Complete the online booking form today to request an in-person or telehealth appointment for help with mood disorders.