Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, are a category of mental health issues that affect one's emotional state. The main types are major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, persistent depressive disorder, and seasonal affective disorder.
Major depressive disorder, commonly known as depression, is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness. Symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide. It can range from mild to severe.
Bipolar disorder involves extreme shifts in mood from mania or hypomania to depression. During manic episodes, one may have unusually high energy levels, impulsiveness, and grandiose thoughts. The cycles of highs and lows in mood can damage relationships and make work difficult.
Persistent depressive disorder involves a depressed mood lasting two or more years, along with other associated symptoms like low self-esteem, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of hopelessness. It is a chronic, low-grade form of depression.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is characterized by depressive symptoms that start in the fall or winter when daylight hours become shorter, and subside in the spring and summer. Common symptoms include low energy, increased desire to sleep, weight gain, and social withdrawal.
If you think you may have a mood disorder, contact your doctor or a mental health professional. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. Getting the right care makes recovery more likely.
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