Mood Disorders

​Mood disorders are complex, and various risk factors contribute to their onset and progression.  Bipolar disorder and depression have a genetic component and biochemical basis.  These risk factors are strongest in bipolar disorder with manic episodes.  Both disorders are also associated with circadian rhythm disruptions, which impact sleep-wake, appetite, energy, and alertness rhythms.  The family environment plays a significant role in the course of bipolar disorder.  Higher rates of relapse are associated with hostility, criticism, or emotional overinvolvement from family members.  Other factors that may contribute to episodes of depression include chronic stress, chronic illness, isolation, lack of social support, poor diet, inactivity, seasonality, and negative thought patterns.   

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Common Symptoms

Symptoms of depression may include difficulty concentrating or making decisions, feelings of worthlessness, sadness, hopelessness, or guilt, changes in appetite or weight, sleeping too much or too little, and loss of interest and pleasure in activities once enjoyed.

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Symptoms of mania or hypomania may include distractibility, flight of ideas, or racing thoughts, elevated mood or irritability, decreased need for sleep, more talkative than usual, or rapid, pressured speech, intense goal-directed activity or energy, and excessive involvement in risky activities that have the potential for serious consequences.

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Treatment Approach

Effective treatment of mood disorders targets root causes.  Medication management by a prescriber may be needed depending on the severity of the illness.  Other targets for treatment may include regulating circadian rhythms, teaching coping skills, improving social support, making lifestyle changes such as improving nutrition and activity level, finding the right balance of activity and nonactivity, working through relevant interpersonal problem areas, and developing healthier thought patterns.  

 

​​If you have any questions or want to learn more about my treatment approach, contact me for a free 30-minute consultation.​​