Mood disorder - Hormone Optimal Care

What is a mood disorder?

A mood disorder is a mental health condition that primarily affects a person's persistent emotional state. Mood disorders can result in prolonged feelings of sadness, irritability, or euphoria.

There are several major types of mood disorders:

• Major depressive disorder: Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in usual activities. Other symptoms may include changes in sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration.
• Persistent depressive disorder: A chronically depressed mood lasting 2 years or more. Less severe than major depression.
• Bipolar disorder: Characterized by cycles of high energy and elevated mood (mania) and depression. Manic episodes may include impulsive behavior and psychoses.
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): A type of depression correlated with changes in seasons, often worsening during winter months.

What causes mood disorders?

The exact causes of mood disorders are complex and not fully understood. Contributing factors are thought to include:

• Brain chemistry imbalances - Neurotransmitter abnormalities resulting in too much or too little of key chemicals like serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine
• Hormone changes - Fluctuations in reproductive, thyroid, and stress hormones
• Genetics - Family history and genetic markers that increase vulnerability
• Stress - Trauma, grief, job stress, and difficult life events

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Diagnosing mood disorders

Mood disorders are generally diagnosed by a licensed mental health professional like a psychiatrist. They will conduct a clinical evaluation of symptoms, including:

• Depressed mood most of the day
• Marked loss of interest or pleasure

To meet diagnostic criteria for a disorder like major depression, symptoms need to cause significant distress or impairment, and cannot be better explained by medications, health conditions, or substance use.

Sometimes laboratory tests like hormone level or genetic tests can help pinpoint biological factors influencing moods. Hormone Optimal Care offers state-of-the-art hormone testing and personalized treatment plans.

Treating mood disorders

Mood disorders are highly treatable, especially when addressed early on. Treatment is tailored to each person but generally involves a combination of:

• Medications, like antidepressants and mood stabilizers
• Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Lifestyle changes, getting regular exercise, quality sleep, proper nutrition, and stress reduction
• For some, hormone therapy can help ameliorate hormonal imbalances contributing to mood disturbances

With professional treatment and self-care, most people can effectively manage mood disorder symptoms and resume healthy, fulfilling lives. Don't go it alone - seek help if you're experiencing an ongoing shift in your moods. The friendly clinicians at Hormone Optimal Care are here to help get your hormones and moods back in balance through precision testing and treatment.