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Mood Disorders Q&A

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders affect your emotional state and overall well-being. They’re characterized by disturbances in mood regulation, showing up as persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or irritability (depressive disorders), or periods of elevated mood, energy, and euphoria (bipolar disorders).

What are the common types of mood disorders?

Common types of mood disorders include:

 

  • Major depressive disorder 
  • Bipolar disorder 
  • Persistent depressive disorder 
  • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

 

Cyclothymic disorder describes mood swings that range from sadness to euphoria, but the peaks and valleys aren’t as extreme as with bipolar disorder.

What are the symptoms of mood disorders?

Symptoms of mood disorders vary depending on the specific disorder but may include:

 

  • Persistent sadness or low mood
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Sleep disturbances 
  • Fatigue or loss of energy
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Episodes of elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity 

 

Mood disorders can bring about thoughts of self-harm or suicide or cause people to engage in extreme impulsive and risky activities. If you worry that you or a loved one is in danger, get care immediately. 

How do you treat mood disorders?

Treatment for mood disorders typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. 

 

The Elevate Medical providers offer psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy, to help you explore your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The goal of talk therapy is to help you develop coping strategies for managing symptoms. 

 

Your therapist may also prescribe medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics, to reduce symptoms and stabilize your mood. Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise, healthy eating habits, stress management techniques, and adequate sleep, can also support overall mental wellness.

 

The team of experienced mental health professionals at Elevate Medical specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders. They offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. 

 

If you or a loved one needs help managing a mood disorder, reach out to Elevate Medical in Midtown Manhattan by phone or use this website to book an online appointment.