Mood is how we feel inside. Everyone feels happy, sad, excited, or worried sometimes. This is normal.
But sometimes, people feel very sad, very happy, or very tired for a long time. These strong feelings can make it hard to do everyday things. When this happens, it might be a mood disorder.
At Affirm Healthcare, we help adults in Oregon and Washington who have mood disorders. We offer care that is kind, safe and respectful. We want to make people feel safe and heard.
What Is a Mood Disorder?
A mood disorder is when feelings are very strong for a long time. It is more than just a bad day.
People with a mood disorder may feel very sad, very angry, or very happy. It can also change how they sleep, eat, or talk.
Mood disorders are common. They are not anyone’s fault. They are real health problems, and people can get help.
Common Types of Mood Disorders
- Major Depressive Disorder
Major depressive disorder, or depression, causes people to feel sad every day. They may not like those things that they previously liked. Other symptoms include:
- Feeling tired
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Having little energy
Depression is common. It can happen to children and adults. At Affirm Healthcare, we prescribe medicine, talk therapy, or both to make people feel better.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)
Some people experience long-term sadness, although not very intense. It is known as the persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
It can last for years. Individuals can be exhausted, desperate, or lose interest in life.
It is easy to think this sadness is normal, but help from a doctor can make life better.
Affirm Healthcare gives support to help people feel happy and healthy again.
- Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder causes individuals to feel very elevated or very sad.
Feeling high is referred to as mania when people are in a state of mania. They can be energetic, be in a hurry, or be risky. When they feel upset, they may sense gloom, exhaustion, or despair.
The mood swings may occur in days or weeks. Medical and non-medical treatment are possible.
Affirm Healthcare assists bipolar patients in remaining well and secure.
- Cyclothymic Disorder
Cyclothymic disorder resembles bipolar disorder, but the alterations in mood are not so significant.
Individuals can be happy or sad for a long period. These mood swings may continue to make life difficult as well.
Practitioners in Affirm Healthcare educate on how to deal with cyclothymic disorder. Through support, individuals can experience stable moods and live.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Not everyone is happy at all times of the year. Experts refer to this as seasonal affective disorder.
It normally occurs during winter in times of little sunshine. Individuals can sleep more, be tired or desirous of sweet foods.
SAD can make work or school harder. Doctors can help with therapy, counseling, or medicine.
Affirm Healthcare supports patients in feeling better all year.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
PMDD occurs before an interval. Women with PMDD may get very depressed, angry or upset. They can be fussy or weep frequently.
PMDD is not a myth, and it can be treated. Physicians can make individuals feel better.
- Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder
This condition impacts children and teenagers. Children can be very temperamental and have huge tantrums. They tend to be petulant and angry the majority of the time.
Early support is essential. It may bring kids and families to a cooler state.
Causes of Mood Disorders
Mood disorders can happen for many reasons:
- Family History: In case close relatives had mood disorders, it might contribute to the risk
- Brain Changes: Chemicals in the brain can affect mood
- Life Events: Stress-inducing events such as relocation, loss of someone you love, or trauma may cause disruptions in mood
- Health Issues: Illness or changes in the body can affect feelings
Doctors at Affirm Healthcare see the whole person. We check mental health, physical health, and life experiences. This helps them make the best care plan.
Signs You Should Get Help
You may need help if you:
- Feel sad or empty most days
- Stop enjoying things you like
- Feel very happy or very sad for no reason
- Sleep too much or too little
- Eat too much or too little
- Have trouble thinking or making choices
- Think about hurting yourself
Early assistance is key. Affirm Healthcare offers virtual visits or direct appointments, making it easy and secure to access care.
Treatment Options
Mood disorders can get better with help. Treatment may include:
- Medicine
Helps balance feelings in the brain.
· Therapy
Talks help people understand and cope with feelings.
· Healthy Habits
Sleeping well, eating well and exercising help mood.
At Affirm Healthcare, doctors use all these methods to help people feel better. We create care plans that fit each person’s needs.
Final Thoughts
Mood disorders are common but serious.
Depression, bipolar disorder, persistent depression, SAD, PMDD, cyclothymic disorder and mood problems in kids are some common types.
Each type can make life harder. Each type can be treated.
At Affirm Healthcare, we help adults in Oregon and Washington with kind psychiatric care. We offer online visits and in-person visits in Tigard. We want care to feel safe, easy and helpful.
FAQs
Can children have mood disorders?
Yes. Children and adults can have mood disorders. Symptoms can appear differently in children, yet assistance can be given to anyone, regardless of age.
Can mood disorders be treated without medicine?
Sometimes therapy and lifestyle modifications are sufficient. Physicians determine the best plan.
Should I get help if my moods keep changing?
Yes. You should see a doctor for mood swings that make life hard.
Can adults get seasonal affective disorder?
Yes. Adults can feel SAD, especially in the fall and winter.