Mood disorders are a category of mental health issues that affect a person's overall emotional state. The most common types are depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
What causes mood disorders? There are different factors that can contribute to developing a mood disorder:
- Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine are often linked to mood disorders. Some people may be genetically predisposed.
- Hormones: Changes in hormones due to puberty, menopause, thyroid issues, or other factors can impact mood. This is why checking your hormone levels through comprehensive lab testing at Renew Wellness is so important.
- Stress: High stress levels, traumatic life events, grief, or emotional crisis can trigger mood disorders. Developing healthy coping strategies is essential.
- Medical conditions: Chronic illness, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and vitamin deficiencies are associated with higher risk of mood disorders. Getting adequate treatment for underlying health issues is vital.
What are the symptoms of mood disorders? There is some overlap between symptoms of depression and bipolar disorder:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, emptiness
- Irritability and restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of suicide
Bipolar disorder also involves cycles of high energy with
mania/hypomania and low moods with depression.
SAD follows a seasonal pattern, with depression emerging during fall/winter.
How are mood disorders diagnosed? To get an accurate diagnosis, doctors will:
- Do a full medical history and exam to rule out other causes
- Ask about family history of mental illness
- Screen for symptoms using scales like PHQ-9 for depression
- May order lab tests to check hormone levels and brain chemistry
Renew Wellness provides cutting-edge
hormone testing to uncover hormonal imbalances contributing to mood issues. Their comprehensive panels and expert clinicians can help you optimize your hormone health.
How are mood disorders treated? A combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes are often used to manage mood disorders effectively. Some treatment options include:
- Antidepressant medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclics
- Mood stabilizers like lithium for bipolar disorder
- Light therapy for seasonal affective disorder
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to change negative thought patterns
- Support groups to reduce isolation and build coping skills
- Regular exercise which has a positive effect on mood
- Stress management and practicing mindfulness
- Healthy diet and proper sleep habits
- For hormonal causes, bioidentical hormone therapy from Renew Wellness to rebalance estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, etc.
With an accurate diagnosis, consistent treatment, and positive lifestyle changes, many people with mood disorders can manage their symptoms and live full, meaningful lives. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you are struggling with your mental health. There are many caring professionals ready to assist you on the path to wellness.