Mood Disorder is a general term used to describe a range of depressive disorders including major depressive disorder, dysthymia (long-term low mood and irritability), bipolar disorder (alternating periods of depression and mania / highs), or mood disorders related to substance use. A number of factors can contribute to the development of a mood disorder. This can include difficult or stressful life experiences, brain chemistry imbalance, trauma and genetics.

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Common symptoms of a mood disorder include:

• long-term or ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness or despair.

• a debilitating sense of depression, flat mood or 'emptiness'

• chronic low self-esteem

• feeling worthless

• intense feelings of shame or guilt

• loss of interest in hobbies or social activities

• withdrawal / isolation

• sleep disturbances

• changes in eating habits or weight

• inability to focus or concentrate

• severe lethargy / fatigue 

• physical aches and pains 

• short-tempered, angry, aggressive or hostile

• consistent or repeated thoughts of death, dying or suicide or attempts of suicide - if you have experience this you should seek treatment immediately, either by contacting your GP, crisis or emergency services.

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Mood disorders tend to be diagnosed if you report experiencing symptoms for more than 6 months or more. A medical doctor or psychiatrist diagnoses mood disorder conditions and they will usually recommend psychiatric medication.

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Psychotherapy is useful in addressing mood disorders as it can help to develop insight and understanding into the nature of this and in order to develop some psychological tools to help manage. 

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A holistic approach to mood disorder will consider lifestyle and nutritional factors, sleep patterns day/night rhythm and psychological factors.

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