Mood disorders are mental disorders where people suffer from severe of prolonged mood states alternating with low or elevated mood which effects their normal functioning. All of us are affected by mood fluctuations and are prone to sadness and depression at times, but if these feelings start getting intense and out of control then it could become a matter of concern. If frequent mood swings continue for longer periods of time ( weeks to months), and hampers normal day to day activities, the affected person could be suffering from mood disorders.
It is difficult to pinpoint the exact cause for mood disorders but scientifically it can be argued that one of the root causes of mood disorders is due to imbalances in the brain caused b a chemical called neurotransmitters. Other reasons include genetic, environmental and hormonal imbalances.
Almost everyone irrespective of age and gender are at the risk of being affected by mood disorders. But people who are more at risk are those who have family members with this problem, those leading highly stressful lives, those who are faced with alcohol or substance abuse problems and those who have suffered sudden personal setbacks in their life like death of a loved one or huge financial losses in business.
Symptoms
The symptoms of mood disorders can vary from individuals to individuals depending on age and other factors But the general symptoms include :
- Feelings of Hostility and aggression
- Irritability and mood fluctuations
- Feeling of guilt
- Difficulty in concentration
- Loss of interest in normal routine activities
- Feeling helpless and sad often
- Body pains and aches couple with fatigue
Types of Mood Disorders
Mood disorders can generally be classified under
- Bipolar Disorder: Periods of depressed moods with periods of elevated mood
- Depression: Long periods of mood swings with lack of interest in day to day activities
- Chronic mood disorders :Low grade chronic depression which last for more than two years
- Substance Abuse/ Chronic Medical Conditions induced mood disorders: Depression caused by chronic medical conditions like cancer, disabling injuries or overdependence on drugs, substance abuse etc.
