MOOD DISORDERS

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Mood disorders impact your emotional state and energy, fluctuating between periods of depression and heightened energy. Debra Black-Mayo, MS, LPC, CCTP, CDBT, at Mayo Counseling Center, LLC, offers empathetic and thorough treatment for various mood disorders for individuals aged 12 and above. If you find yourself in a persistent low mood for more than two weeks, or if you’re experiencing swings from low to high moods, it’s crucial to get support. Contact our Chandler, Arizona office or schedule an appointment online for either in-person or telehealth consultations today.

Mood Disorders Q&A

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders encompass a range of mental health issues characterized by periods of depression (low mood), mania (high mood), or a combination of both. Regardless of the intensity of your symptoms, these conditions can significantly impact your emotions, actions, thought processes, and overall physical health.

What are the different types of mood disorders?

Mood disorders are categorized into two main types, each encompassing various specific conditions:

The first category, bipolar and related disorders, consists of:

• Bipolar I disorder
• Bipolar II disorder
• Cyclothymic disorder

The second category, depressive disorders, includes:

• Major depressive disorder
• Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder

Postpartum depression is formally recognized as a type of major depressive disorder, termed MDD with peripartum onset.

What are the symptoms of mood disorders?

In depressive disorders, individuals experience persistent low moods. In contrast, those with bipolar disorder oscillate between periods of depression and mania, with the pattern and intensity of these mood swings varying according to the specific type of bipolar disorder. Symptoms of manic episodes can include:

• Continuous high energy and activity
• Minimal need for sleep
• Increased energy levels, even with little sleep
• Racing thoughts
• Fast-paced speech
• Engaging in risky activities, such as extravagant spending or impaired driving

Symptoms common to depressive phases, including those within bipolar disorder, are:

• Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and hopelessness
• A diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Withdrawal from social interactions
• Significant changes in appetite
• Weight fluctuations
• Difficulty in decision-making
• Feelings of anxiety or restlessness
• Suicidal thoughts

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) stands apart from mania and depression. It manifests in children and adolescents as severe anger, irritability, and frequent, intense temper outbursts, which are much more severe than typical childhood tantrums.

How are mood disorders treated?

Treatment for mood disorders typically involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Conditions such as bipolar disorder and severe depression often require medication to achieve mood stability. However, therapy is usually the initial step in treatment. Debra is skilled in a variety of therapeutic methods designed to assist individuals in navigating through mood disorders. You might discover techniques for identifying and altering negative thought patterns, enhancing communication and social skills, or recognizing and averting imminent mood shifts.

If you’re seeking support for mood swings, reach out to Mayo Counseling Center, LLC, to schedule an appointment, available both in-person and via telehealth, using the online booking tool today.