Mood disorders can take many different forms, but what they all have in common is that the emotional state of someone with a mood disorder is not consistent with the reality of their life. That means that there is some distortion between the world and an individual’s perception of it.

Types of Mood Disorders

Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder characterized by extended periods of time where a patient is persistently, and extremely sad.

Bipolar Disorder

Like major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder has long periods of deep sadness. Between periods of sadness someone with bipolar disorder also has to deal with periods of extreme happiness. While extreme happiness might not sound so bad, it can have less than desirable effects like lack of sleep, an inability to concentrate, excited and possibly incomprehensible speech, and engaging in risky behavior at high rates (spending money or hypersexuality). In extreme cases, a manic episode can lead to psychosis.

Cyclothymic disorder, has a similar pattern of “up-and-down” behaviors, but not at the same heights or depths as bipolar disorder.

Substance-Induced Mood Disorders

A mood disorder caused by substances like drugs or alcohol can happen when someone either begins using that substance, or once they stop taking that drug regularly. While most of the effects caused by cessation of drug or alcohol use will end after several weeks or months, other effects might linger longer. If these effects do not go away it may be a sign of a pre-existing mood disorder that might require treatment.

Because there are many forms of mood disorders it can be difficult to properly diagnose them without the help of a professional. Call us at New Hope Counseling Services in Palatine to discuss a treatment plan for any mood disorder that you or a loved one might have.