Mood Disorders | Psychology for UPSC Optional (Notes) PDF Download

What is a mood disorder?

A mood disorder is a mental health condition that primarily affects a person's emotional state. It is characterized by long periods of extreme happiness, extreme sadness, or both. Some mood disorders also involve persistent emotions like anger and irritability. While it is normal for moods to change depending on the situation, a mood disorder diagnosis requires the presence of symptoms for several weeks or longer. These disorders can cause changes in behavior and impact one's ability to carry out daily activities such as work or school. The two most common mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder.

What are all the mood disorders?

Mood disorders encompass various conditions, including:

• Depression and its subtypes.
• Bipolar disorder and its subtypes.
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.

Depression

Depression, also known as major or clinical depression, is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by feelings of sadness or hopelessness. It can also affect cognitive functions such as thinking, memory, eating, and sleeping. To receive a diagnosis of clinical depression, symptoms must persist for at least two weeks. There are different types of depression, including postpartum depression, persistent depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and depression with psychosis.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong mood disorder that causes intense mood shifts, energy level fluctuations, altered thinking patterns, and behavioral changes. There are four basic types of bipolar disorder: bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, cyclothymic disorder (cyclothymia), and other specified/unspecified bipolar and related disorders.

Other Mood Disorders

Other mood disorders include premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which occurs before menstruation and involves symptoms such as anger, irritability, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) affects children and adolescents, resulting in frequent anger outbursts and irritability disproportionate to the situation.

Is anxiety a mood disorder?

Anxiety, specifically generalized anxiety disorder, is not classified as a mood disorder. It falls under the category of anxiety disorders, along with conditions like panic disorder and phobias. However, anxiety often coexists with or precedes mood disorders.

Who do mood disorders affect?

Mood disorders can affect anyone, including children, adolescents, and adults. Major depression is more prevalent in women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB) compared to men and people assigned male at birth (AMAB).

How common are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are relatively common in adults, with depression and bipolar disorder being the most prevalent. Approximately 7% of adults in the United States have depression, while about 2.8% have bipolar disorder. Mood disorders also affect approximately 15% of children and adolescents.

What are the symptoms of mood disorders?

Symptoms of mood disorders vary depending on the specific condition. Generally, mood disorders involve changes in mood, sleep patterns, eating behaviors, energy levels, and thinking abilities. Symptoms of depression include persistent sadness, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, thoughts of death or suicide, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite. Symptoms of hypomanic or manic episodes, seen in bipolar disorder, include extreme elation or energized mood, rapid speech or movement, agitation, restlessness, irritability, risk-taking behavior, racing thoughts, and insomnia.

What causes mood disorders?

• Researchers believe that mood disorders have several contributing factors, including biological, genetic, and environmental factors. Changes in the brain areas responsible for regulating emotions, such as the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex, are associated with the development of mood disorders. Imbalances in neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, also play a role in mood regulation.
• Genetic factors are believed to contribute to the susceptibility to mood disorders. People with a family history of mood disorders are at a higher risk of developing these conditions themselves. However, having a genetic predisposition does not guarantee the development of a mood disorder, as environmental factors also play a significant role.
• Environmental factors can trigger or exacerbate mood disorders. Factors such as traumatic events, chronic stress, substance abuse, significant life changes, and certain medical conditions can increase the risk of developing a mood disorder. Additionally, imbalances in hormones, particularly in women during hormonal changes such as pregnancy, postpartum, or menopause, can contribute to mood disturbances.

How are mood disorders diagnosed?

• The diagnosis of a mood disorder typically involves a comprehensive assessment conducted by a mental health professional. This assessment includes a detailed evaluation of the individual's symptoms, medical history, family history, and a psychological evaluation. The mental health professional may use criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to determine the specific mood disorder diagnosis.
• It is essential to rule out other medical conditions that may mimic or contribute to mood disorder symptoms. Therefore, a physical examination and laboratory tests may be conducted to exclude any underlying medical conditions.

What are the treatment options for mood disorders?

The treatment of mood disorders often involves a combination of different approaches, including medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. The specific treatment plan depends on the type and severity of the mood disorder and should be tailored to the individual's needs.

• Medication: Antidepressant medications, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications are commonly prescribed to manage mood disorders. These medications help stabilize mood, regulate neurotransmitters, and alleviate symptoms. The choice of medication depends on the specific diagnosis and individual factors, and it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the most effective medication and dosage.
• Psychotherapy: Various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy, are used to treat mood disorders. These therapies help individuals identify and change negative thought patterns, develop coping skills, improve interpersonal relationships, and manage stress.
• Lifestyle changes: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can also support the management of mood disorders. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, stress reduction techniques (e.g., mindfulness, meditation), and avoiding substance abuse can all contribute to improved mood and overall well-being.

In some cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended for severe or treatment-resistant mood disorders. ECT involves the controlled induction of seizures under general anesthesia and has shown effectiveness in certain cases.
It is crucial for individuals with mood disorders to work closely with mental health professionals to develop an individualized treatment plan and receive ongoing support and monitoring. With proper treatment and support, many individuals with mood disorders can effectively manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

In addition to the standard treatment options mentioned earlier, there are a few other emerging therapies and approaches being explored in the field of mood disorder treatment:

• Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It has shown promise in the treatment of major depressive disorder that doesn't respond well to medications. TMS is typically administered as a series of sessions over several weeks.
• Ketamine Therapy: Ketamine, originally used as an anesthetic, has gained attention for its rapid antidepressant effects. It is administered in controlled settings, and research has shown its potential in treating treatment-resistant depression and suicidal ideation. However, more studies are needed to determine its long-term efficacy and safety.
• Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS): DBS involves the surgical implantation of electrodes in specific brain regions to deliver electrical impulses. It has been explored as a treatment option for severe depression and bipolar disorder. DBS is a complex procedure reserved for individuals who have not responded to other treatments.
• Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Mindfulness-based interventions, such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), have shown promising results in reducing depressive symptoms and preventing relapse in individuals with recurrent depression. These therapies focus on cultivating present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance.
• Alternative and Complementary Approaches: Some individuals with mood disorders explore complementary approaches like acupuncture, yoga, meditation, herbal supplements, or dietary modifications. While these approaches may offer benefits for overall well-being, their specific efficacy in treating mood disorders is still being studied, and it's important to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating them into a treatment plan.

It's worth noting that the field of mental health is continually evolving, and new treatments and therapies may emerge as research progresses. It's important for individuals with mood disorders to stay informed, work closely with their healthcare providers, and discuss potential treatment options that may be suitable for their specific situation. Additionally, a strong support system of family, friends, and support groups can provide invaluable assistance throughout the treatment process.