Mood disorders can be debilitating, and they are all too common in our society today.
Medically reviewed by Dr Rehaam Ali Khan 
Those who suffer from mood disorders may feel extreme highs or lows, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts of suicide. They often find it difficult to complete everyday tasks and maintain healthy relationships. There is no single cause of a mood disorder – instead, there are multiple contributing factors such as genetic predisposition, brain chemistry imbalances, trauma, grief, or substance use disorders. Symptoms vary depending on the individual and their diagnosis. While mood disorders are treatable, it can take time for treatment to become effective. The most commonly diagnosed mood disorder is depression. Symptoms of depression include persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, fatigue or lack of energy, changes in sleep habits and appetite, difficulties with concentration and decision making, as well as physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. Anxiety is another common type of mood disorder; those affected may experience intense fear and worry as well as racing thoughts or physical sensations such as trembling or dizziness. Bipolar disorder is characterized by alternating episodes of manic highs (elevated energy levels, racing thoughts) and depressive lows (overwhelming sadness). Fortunately there are several ways to address these issues: psychotherapy, medication management with a psychiatrist or psychologist (or both), lifestyle modifications like regular exercise and stress management techniques such as yoga or mindfulness practices. Seeking support from family members or trusted friends can also help individuals suffering from a mood disorder get the assistance they need to move forward in life. If you think you may have a mood disorder, don’t wait - reach out for help today!