Mood disorders encompass a wide range of mental health conditions that can greatly affect a person’s quality of life. If you experience persistent sadness or periods of manic highs, working with a mental health professional could be helpful. 

What Are Mood Disorders?

Many different conditions can be included in the category of mood disorder. Depression is a common issue. Depression entails low energy, loss of interest, and feelings of hopelessness that last for two weeks or more. People can experience hypomania or mania, episodes of heightened energy, loss of interests, and sleeplessness. Re-occurring episodes of hypomania or mania might be a condition called Bipolar Disorder. 

Mental health issues can result from medical health conditions or substance abuse, as well as disruptions in early caregiver relationships, shock, and trauma. It takes a qualified therapist to diagnose a disorder and offer treatment.

What Are the Symptoms?

While symptom can vary from person to person, there are a few common signs to be aware of. These include loss of interest in hobbies and other activities, changes in appetite and sleep, trouble dealing with failure, irritability, anxiousness, problems with interpersonal relationships, feelings of guilt, and low self-esteem. These thoughts and emotions can lead to suicidal thinking, which requires immediate mental health intervention.

How Can I Get Help?

If you think you might have a mood disorder, talk to your primary care provider, who can advise you about your symptoms and offer referrals. Another option is to locate a mental health provider and schedule a consultation appointment. 

Once a diagnosis is made, there are a wide range of treatment options available:

• Medications to mitigate symptoms.
• Cognitive therapy to change problematic thought processes and build coping skills.
• Psychotherapy and exposure therapy to alleviate distress and resolve disruptions from trauma.
• Family therapy to address issues that affect a couple or parents/caregivers in a family.

If you’re struggling with the effects of a mood disorder, finding the right help is crucial. That’s why Fairbanks Psychiatric & Neurological Clinic, APC, provides patients with the latest interventions. We want to ensure an efficient and smooth transition from mental health problems to mental health wellness. Call (907) 452-1739 today to schedule your appointment. Sally Caldwell, LPC-S, the therapist at FPNC, is accepting new patients. You can also visit our practice online to learn more about counseling services.