Understanding Mood disorders- Depression & Bipolar Disorder
Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions that involve persistent and often severe changes in a person’s emotional state. They can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, irritability, or mania, and can affect a person’s ability to carry out daily activities and interact with others. Mood disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors and may be treated with a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. Examples of mood disorders include Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Dysthymic Disorder, and Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Let’s talk about the 2 most common mood disorders
Depression
Depression and bipolar disorder are linked to each other. Depression is a term which is very casually used in our day to day lives alternative to the term “sadness”, but let us make you all aware that it is a lot more than what you think.
Depression is a mood disorder wherein a person starts to feel worthless and capable of doing nothing. For a person dealing with depression all the happy and sad events are viewed the same and there is a sense of emptiness. Also, it is about a feeling of not being understood and an individual undergoes helplessness.
The major symptom involves the loss of interest in day-to-day activities, hobbies and sometimes one may feel that life isn’t worth living. It also include changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders globally, affecting millions of people. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects more than 264 million people worldwide and is the leading cause of disability. The prevalence of depression varies by region, but it is estimated that between 4-17% of the general population experience depression at some point in their lives.
Causes of Depression
Depression is a complex condition that can be caused by a combination of factors, including:
Biological factors: Depression can be related to changes in brain chemistry and functioning, as well as hormonal imbalances.
Environmental factors: Stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems, or a traumatic experience can trigger depression.
Psychological factors: Low self-esteem, negative thinking patterns, and a history of trauma or abuse can increase the risk of depression.
Genetics: Depression can run in families and may be related to genetic predisposition.
Substance abuse: Substance abuse and alcoholism can contribute to the development of depression.
It is important to note that depression is not a result of personal weakness or a lack of willpower, and seeking treatment is important to managing the condition.
Symptoms of Depression
The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include:
Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Fatigue and low energy
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide
Physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems, and chronic pain
It’s important to seek help if you experience symptoms of depression that persist for more than two weeks, interfere with daily life, and are affecting your ability to function. Treatment can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.
Types of Depression
There are several types of depression, including:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): This is the most commonly diagnosed type of depression and is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in activities.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD): Previously known as dysthymia, PDD is a less severe but longer-lasting form of depression.
Bipolar disorder: This type of depression is characterised by alternating periods of mania and depression.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): This type of depression is related to changes in seasons and is commonly characterised by symptoms such as fatigue, low energy, and carbohydrate cravings.
Psychotic depression: This type of depression is characterised by delusions or hallucinations, in addition to symptoms of depression.
Postpartum depression: This type of depression can occur in women after giving birth and is related to hormonal and lifestyle changes.
It’s important to seek professional help to accurately diagnose the type of depression you may be experiencing, as treatment plans and outcomes can vary based on the type of depression.
Treatment of Depression
The treatment of depression typically involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Commonly used treatments include:
Psychotherapy: This type of therapy can help individuals identify and change negative thinking patterns and behaviours, as well as develop coping skills to manage symptoms of depression.
Antidepressant medication: These medications can help to regulate brain chemistry and alleviate symptoms of depression.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): This is a medical treatment used in severe cases of depression that have not responded to other treatments.
Lifestyle changes: Exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep habits can help to manage symptoms of depression and improve overall well-being.
Light therapy: This type of therapy involves exposure to bright light to regulate the body’s circadian rhythms and alleviate symptoms of depression.
It’s important to work with a mental health professional to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs and goals. With proper treatment, many people with depression are able to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
2. Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder- Causes, Symptoms, types and Treatment
Bipolar disorder is the result of chronic depression, also known as manic-depressive illness. It is a mental health condition characterised by mood swings from feelings of mania to feelings of depression.
Mania is characterised by high energy levels, excessive happiness, little need for sleep, and impulsive behaviour, while depression is characterised by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low energy levels, and difficulty functioning.
The severity, frequency, and duration of these episodes can vary from person to person, and they can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life and relationships. Bipolar disorder typically requires lifelong treatment and management, and it is often treated with a combination of medications and therapy.
Causes
The exact causes of bipolar disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Some of the contributing factors include:
Genetics: Bipolar disorder tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link.
Brain structure and function: Abnormalities in the brain structure and function have been observed in people with bipolar disorder, but more research is needed to fully understand the relationship.
Neurotransmitter imbalances: Bipolar disorder has been linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters, the chemicals in the brain that regulate mood and behaviour.
Hormonal imbalances: Changes in hormones, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, may trigger bipolar episodes in some people.
Stressful life events: Traumatic or stressful life events, such as loss of a loved one, financial difficulties, or relationship problems, can trigger a bipolar episode.
It’s important to note that while these factors may contribute to the development of bipolar disorder, they do not cause it in every case. The causes of bipolar disorder are complex and may vary from person to person.
Symptoms of bipolar disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder can vary in severity, frequency, and duration, but the two main types of episodes are manic or hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.
Manic or hypomanic episode symptoms include:
.Increased energy and activity levels
.Elevated mood or excessive happiness
.Racing thoughts and rapid speech
.Impulsive or reckless behaviour
.Little need for sleep
.Grandiose thinking or delusions of grandeur
.Aggressive or irritable behaviour
.Depressive episode symptoms include:
-Low mood or sadness
-Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
-Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
-Fatigue or low energy levels
-Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
-Thoughts of death or suicide
It’s important to note that some people with bipolar disorder experience mixed episodes, where they have symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time. Additionally, the symptoms of bipolar disorder can also interfere with daily life and can cause significant distress and impairment. If you suspect you or someone you know may have bipolar disorder, it is important to seek professional help.
Types
There are four main types of bipolar disorder:
Bipolar I Disorder: characterised by manic or mixed episodes that last at least 7 days and may be severe enough to require hospitalisation.
Bipolar II Disorder: characterised by depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes, which are less intense than manic episodes.
Cyclothymic Disorder (Cyclothymia): characterised by mood swings that alternate between hypomania and mild depression, lasting for at least 2 years.
Other Specified and Unspecified Bipolar and Related Disorders: these are conditions that don’t fit neatly into the other three categories, but still involve symptoms of mania or depression.
Treatment for bipolar disorder typically involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
Treatment
Some common treatments include:
Mood stabilisers: medications such as lithium, valproic acid, and lamotrigine, which help control manic and depressive episodes.
Antidepressants: medication used to treat the depressive episodes of bipolar disorder, but can sometimes trigger manic episodes.
Antipsychotics: medications used to treat mania or depression that do not respond to other treatments.
Psychotherapy: talking therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and family-focused therapy can help people with bipolar disorder manage their symptoms, improve communication and relationships, and reduce the risk of relapse.
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT): a medical procedure used to treat severe bipolar episodes when other treatments have not been effective.
It’s important to note that every individual’s experience with bipolar disorder is unique, so the most effective treatment will vary from person to person. It’s crucial to work with a mental health professional to develop a personalised treatment plan.
Your Counselling Dost provides a safe space to individuals who want to express themselves and want to improve heir mental well being . In case you’re suffering from anxiety, we offer customised plans which are not just powerful but can help you to heal successfully based on your own pace and strength.