Mood Disorders

Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, are a group of mental health conditions that directly affect an individual's mood or emotional state. They are often due to an imbalance of brain chemicals or genetics, but can also be triggered by stressful life events. Anyone can be affected by a mood disorder, however women are twice as likely to be affected compared to men.

There are different mood disorders, including:

Did You Know?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 21.4% of American adults experience a mood disorder at some point during their lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the symptoms of a mood disorder?

The symptoms of mood disorders can vary depending on the specific type and severity, but there are some general signs and symptoms that indicate a person might be affected by a mood disorder:

Unexplained physical changes (weight loss or gain)
Sadness or lack of interest in activities they once found pleasurable
Withdrawal from friends and/or family
Changes in sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little)
Mood swings, especially when they’re severe and sudden
Change in appetite or eating habits
Episodes of unprovoked irritability, restlessness, and anxiousness
Inability to concentrate or make decisions
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Anxiety in social or public situations
Feelings of guilt, inadequacy, or hopelessness
Fatigue

Oftentimes, people with mood disorders experience feelings more intensely than the average person, which can interfere with social, professional, and/or romantic relationships. Mood disorders can only be diagnosed by a mental health provider, so if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms, schedule a consultation with your Las Vegas psychiatrist at Prestige Mental Health.

How are mood disorders diagnosed at Prestige Mental Health?

Mood disorders cannot be diagnosed from any single test. To diagnose a mood disorder, your Las Vegas psychiatrist will discuss your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a physical exam to rule out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.

How are mood disorders treated?

There are different treatment options available for mood disorders and your exact treatment will be customized to fit your needs. With that being said, treatment for mood disorders generally encompasses the use of mood stabilizing medications to address brain chemical imbalances and psychotherapy to change negative thoughts and behaviors associated with mood disorders.

Can mood disorders be prevented?

Unfortunately, mood disorders cannot be prevented. Some people may also be at a higher risk due to a family history of mood disorders. The good news, however, is that mood disorders can be effectively treated. Early diagnosis and treatment of a mood disorder helps to decrease symptom severity and improve one’s quality of life.