Mood Disorders

A lot of people are familiar with the term mood disorder, however very few people actually know specifically what one is and how to spot one, and more importantly how to distinguish the different and varying types of mood disorders. This post is going to talk about what mood disorders actually are. A mood disorder is also known as an affective disorder, and is a type of mental health problem. Mood disorders are not concentrated to one gender, age or type of person and they can occur in almost anyone including children. It is often noted that in children the worst kind of mood disorders are seen, but this isnt always true. Adults can have mood disorder problems, with much more damaging consequences than the ones found in children. The root cause of mood disorders isnt fully understood, however many scientists have attributed mood disorders to an imbalance of certain brain chemicals that are technically known as neurotransmitters. However sometime it is not due to this imbalance, and in these cases the cause of mood disorders falls on substance and drug abuse and traumatic life events. The most common and frequently discussed type of mood disorders include major depression, bipolar disorder and dysthymic disorder. Each one of these main types of mood disorder has their own distinctly different characteristics, so need to be dealt in different ways. Therefore there is no one way or quick fix for mood disorders. The major and most notable symptoms of a mood disorder include immense and ongoing feelings of sadness and despair. Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness are also common. Another feeling that is common in mood disorder sufferers is inadequacy. Along with this comes feelings of guilt, followed swiftly by suicidal thoughts and behaviour patterns, and this is where mood disorders can take a very nasty and frightening turn.

Depression
Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. True clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with everyday life for weeks or longer We all go through ups and downs in our mood. Sadness is a normal reaction to lifes struggles, setbacks, and disappointments. Many people use the word depression to explain these kinds of feelings, but depression is much more than just sadness. Some people describe depression as living in a black hole or having a feeling of impending doom. However, some depressed people don't feel sad at allthey may feel lifeless, empty, and apathetic, or men in particular may even feel angry, aggressive, and restless.

Whatever the symptoms, depression is different from normal sadness in that it engulfs your dayto-day life, interfering with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and have fun. The feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness are intense and unrelenting, with little, if any, relief.

Signs and symptoms of depression

Depression varies from person to person, but there are some common signs and symptoms. Its important to remember that these symptoms can be part of lifes normal lows. But the more symptoms you have, the stronger they are, and the longer theyve lastedthe more likely it is that youre dealing with depression. When these symptoms are overwhelming and disabling, that's when it's time to seek help.
Common signs and symptoms of depression
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Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. A bleak outlook nothing will ever get better and there s nothing you can do to improve your situation. Loss of interest in daily activities. No interest in former hobbies, pastimes, social activities, or sex. You ve lost your ability to feel joy and pleasure. Appetite or weight changes. Significant weight loss or weight gain a change of more than 5% of body weight in a month. Sleep changes. Either insomnia, especially waking in the early hours of the morning, or oversleeping (also known as hypersomnia). Anger or irritability. Feeling agitated, restless, or even violent. Your tolerance level is low, your temper short, and everything and everyone gets on your nerves. Loss of energy. Feeling fatigued, sluggish, and physically drained. Your whole body may feel heavy, and even small tasks are exhausting or take longer to complete. Self-loathing. Strong feelings of worthlessness or guilt. You harshly criticize yourself for perceived faults and mistakes. Reckless behavior. You engage in escapist behavior such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling, reckless driving, or dangerous sports. Concentration problems. Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things. Unexplained aches and pains. An increase in physical complaints such as headaches, back pain, aching muscles, and stomach pain.

Depression and suicide

Depression is a major risk factor for suicide. The deep despair and hopelessness that goes along with depression can make suicide feel like the only way to escape the pain. Thoughts of death or suicide are a serious symptom of depression, so take any suicidal talk or behavior seriously. It's not just a warning sign that the person is thinking about suicide: it's a cry for help.

Types of depression

Depression comes in many shapes and forms. The different types of depression have unique symptoms, causes, and effects. Knowing what type of depression you have can help you manage your symptoms and get the most effective treatment.
Major depression

Major depression is characterized by the inability to enjoy life and experience pleasure. The symptoms are constant, ranging from moderate to severe. Left untreated, major depression typically lasts for about six months. Some people experience just a single depressive episode in their lifetime, but more commonly, major depression is a recurring disorder. However, there are many things you can do to support your mood and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Dysthymia (recurrent, mild depression)

Dysthmia is a type of chronic low-grade depression. More days than not, you feel mildly or moderately depressed, although you may have brief periods of normal mood. The symptoms of dysthymia are not as strong as the symptoms of major depression, but they last a long time (at least two years). These chronic symptoms make it very difficult to live life to the fullest or to remember better times. Some people also experience major depressive episodes on top of dysthymia, a condition known as double depression. If you suffer from dysthymia, you may feel like youve always been depressed. Or you may think that your continuous low mood is just the way you are. However, dysthymia can be treated, even if your symptoms have gone unrecognized or untreated for years.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Theres a reason why so many movies and books portray rainy days and stormy weather as gloomy. Some people get depressed in the fall or winter, when overcast days are frequent and sunlight is limited. This type of depression is called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seasonal affective disorder is more common in northern climates and in younger people. Like depression, seasonal affective disorder is treatable. Light therapy, a treatment that involves exposure to bright artificial light, often helps relieve symptoms.
Bipolar Disorder: When Depression is Just One Side of the Coin

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is characterized by cycling mood changes. Episodes of depression alternate with manic episodes, which can include impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, rapid speech, and little to no sleep. Typically, the switch from one mood extreme to the other is gradual, with each manic or depressive episode lasting for at least several weeks. When depressed, a person with bipolar disorder exhibits the usual symptoms of major depression. However, the treatments for bipolar depression are very different. In fact, antidepressants can make bipolar depression worse.

Depression causes and risk factors

Some illnesses have a specific medical cause, making treatment straightforward. If you have diabetes, you take insulin. If you have appendicitis, you have surgery. But depression is more complicated. Depression is not just the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain, and is not simply cured with medication. Experts believe that depression is caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. In other words, your lifestyle choices, relationships, and coping skills matter just as muchif not more sothan genetics. However, certain risk factors make you more vulnerable to depression.
Causes and risk factors for depression

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Loneliness Lack of social support Recent stressful life experiences Family history of depression Marital or relationship problems Financial strain Early childhood trauma or abuse Alcohol or drug abuse Unemployment or underemployment Health problems or chronic pain

If depression is very severe, there may also be psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions.

Treatment
In general, treatments for depression include:
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Medications called antidepressants Talk therapy, called psychotherapy

If you have mild depression, you may only need one of these treatments. People with more severe depression usually need combination of both treatments. It takes time to feel better, but there are usually day-to-day improvements. If you are suicidal or extremely depressed and cannot function you may need to be treated in a psychiatric hospital. MEDICATIONS FOR DEPRESSION Drugs used to treat depression are called antidepressants. CHANGES IN MEDICATIONS

Sometimes, medications that you take for another health problem can cause or worsen depression. Talk to your doctor about all the medicines you take. Your doctor may recommend changing your dose or switching to an alternative drug. Never stop taking your medications without first talkingt o your doctor. Women being treated for depression who are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant should not stop taking antidepressants without first talking to their doctors. TALK THERAPY Talk therapy is counseling to talk about your feelings and thoughts, and help you learn how to deal with them. Types of talk therapy include:
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Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches you how to fight off negative thoughts. You will learn how to become more aware of your symptoms and how to spot things that make your depression worse. You'll also be taught problem-solving skills. Psychotherapy can help you understand the issues that may be behind your thoughts and feelings. Joining a support group of people who are sharing problems like yours can also help. Ask your therapist or doctor for a recommendation.

OTHER TREATMENTS FOR DEPRESSION

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Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the single most effective treatment for severe depression and it is generally safe. ECT may improve mood in those with severe depression or suicidal thoughts who don't get better with other treatments. It may also help treat depression in those who have psychotic symptoms. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses pulses of energy to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that are believe to affect mood. There is some research to suggest that it can help relieve depression. Light therapy may relieve depression symptoms in the winter time. However, it is usually not considered a first-line treatment.

Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a condition in which people go back and forth between periods of a very good or irritable mood and depression. The "mood swings" between mania and depression can be very quick.

Causes

Bipolar disorder affects men and women equally. It usually starts between ages 15 - 25. The exact cause is unknown, but it occurs more often in relatives of people with bipolar disorder. Types of bipolar disorder:
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People with bipolar disorder type I have had at least one manic episode and periods of major depression. In the past, bipolar disorder type I was called manic depression. People with bipolar disorder type II have never had full mania. Instead they experience periods of high energy levels and impulsiveness that are not as extreme as mania (called hypomania). These periods alternate with episodes of depression. A mild form of bipolar disorder called cyclothymia involves less severe mood swings. People with this form alternate between hypomania and mild depression. People with bipolar disorder type II or cyclothymia may be wrongly diagnosed as having depression.

In most people with bipolar disorder, there is no clear cause for the manic or depressive episodes. The following may trigger a manic episode in people with bipolar disorder:
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Life changes such as childbirth Medications such as antidepressants or steroids Periods of sleeplessness Recreational drug use

Symptoms
The manic phase may last from days to months. It can include the following symptoms:
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Easily distracted Little need for sleep Poor judgment Poor temper control Reckless behavior and lack of self control o drinking, and/or drug use o Poor judgment o promiscuity o Spending sprees Very elevated mood o Excess activity (hyperactivity) o Increased energy o Racing thoughts o Talking a lot o Very high self-esteem (false beliefs about self or abilities) Very involved in activities Very upset (agitated or irritated)

These symptoms of mania occur with bipolar disorder I. In people with bipolar disorder II, the symptoms of mania are similar but less intense.

The depressed phase of both types of bipolar disorder includes the following symptoms:
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Daily low mood or sadness Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions Eating problems o Loss of appetite and weight loss o Overeating and weight gain Fatigue or lack of energy Feeling worthless, hopeless, or guilty Loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed Loss of self-esteem Thoughts of death and suicide Trouble getting to sleep or sleeping too much Pulling away from friends or activities that were once enjoyed

There is a high risk of suicide with bipolar disorder. Patients may abuse alcohol or other substances, which can make the symptoms and suicide risk worse. Sometimes the two phases overlap. Manic and depressive symptoms may occur together or quickly one after the other in what is called a mixed state.

Signs and tests

Many factors are involved in diagnosing bipolar disorder. The health care provider may do some or all of the following:
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Ask about your family medical history, such as whether anyone has or had bipolar disorder Ask about your recent mood swings and for how long you've had them Perform a thorough examination to look for illnesses that may be causing the symptoms Run laboratory tests to check for thyroid problems or drug levels Talk to your family members about your behavior Take a medical history, including any medical problems you have and any medications you take Watch your behavior and mood

Note: Drug use may cause some symptoms. However, it does not rule out bipolar affective disorder. Drug abuse may be a symptom of bipolar disorder.

Treatment
Periods of depression or mania return in most patients, even with treatment. The main goals of treatment are to:
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Avoid moving from one phase to another

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Avoid the need for a hospital stay Help the patient function as well as possible between episodes Prevent self-injury and suicide Make the episodes less frequent and severe

The health care provider will first try to find out what may have triggered the mood episode. The provider may also look for any medical or emotional problems that might affect treatment. Other drugs used to treat bipolar disorder include:
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Antipsychotic drugs and anti-anxiety drugs (benzodiazepines) for mood problems Antidepressant medications can be added to treat depression. People with bipolar disorder are more likely to have manic or hypomanic episodes if they are put on antidepressants. Because of this, antidepressants are only used in people who also take a mood stabilizer.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be used to treat the manic or depressive phase of bipolar disorder if it does not respond to medication. ECT uses an electrical current to cause a brief seizure while the patient is under anesthesia. ECT is the most effective treatment for depression that is not relieved with medications. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses high-frequency magnetic pulses to target affected areas of the brain. It is most often used after ECT. Patients who are in the middle of manic or depressive episodes may need to stay in a hospital until their mood is stable and their behavior is under control. Doctors are still trying to decide the best way to treat bipolar disorder in children and adolescents. Parents should consider the possible risks and benefits of treatment for their children. Family treatments that combine support and education about bipolar disorder (psychoeducation) may help families cope and reduce the odds of symptoms returning. Programs that offer outreach and community support services can help people who do not have family and social support. Important skills include:
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Coping with symptoms that are present even while taking medications Learning a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep and staying away from recreational drugs Learning to take medications correctly and how to manage side effects Learning to watch for the return of symptoms, and knowing what to do when they return Family members and caregivers are very important in the treatment of bipolar disorder. They can help patients find the right support services, and make sure the patient takes medication correctly.

Getting enough sleep is very important in bipolar disorder. A lack of sleep can trigger a manic episode. Therapy may be helpful during the depressive phase. Joining a support group may help bipolar disorder patients and their loved ones.
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A patient with bipolar disorder cannot always tell the doctor about the state of the illness. Patients often have trouble recognizing their own manic symptoms. Changes in mood with bipolar disorder are not predictable. It it is sometimes hard to tell whether a patient is responding to treatment or naturally coming out of a bipolar phase. Treatments for children and the elderly are not well-studied.

Endogenous Depression
Endogenous depression is not type of depression rather it is biological depression. One of the main causes of endogenous depression is chemical imbalance in brain. Some people feel sick without any sign of emotional change. But this condition is rarely happen. People who don't respond to medication are also called as endogenous depression. There is not exact cause or specific reason or event that depression is endogenous. It is considered to be genetic in origin. Endogenous depression directly affect on life style. But don't worry this type of depression is treated by medication.

Endogenous means 'coming from within' and such depression were thought to be due to biochemical changes within the body, although there is still very little understanding of what triggered them.

Is There is Relationship Between Endogenous Depression and Reactive Depression Reactive Depression Reactive depression specifies that depression from some event or some stress occurring. For example problem in relationship, death of closed one, loss of love one, changing job or anything that directly affect on our life. Sleeping problems because of worry. People who don't respond to antidepressant medication become in reactive depression. Endogenous Depression It has no exact cause of depression not even specific event. But endogenous depression appears to come from nowhere. This type of depression is heredity means that it passes to children because of genetic factor. It is biological depression so it is characterized by sleep pattern, poor concentration, and loss of interest in activity. Some people say that this type of depression gives respond to antidepressants medication.

Feeling tiredness, hopelessness, sadness, memory problem, sleeping pattern change are all symptoms of endogenous depression. Sometimes endogenous depression is also called as unipolar depression. Unipolar depression happens to 50% of depressed people. In this type of depression most of people think about suicide. Thus it common type of depression and it happen to 6% of women and 3% of men. Symptoms A person who suffers from endogenous depression will often exhibit similar symptoms as someone suffering from any other type of depression. The person could appear anxious, have a change in sleeping patterns, a change in eating habits, show fatigue, have low self-esteem and even sudden mood changes. The symptoms of endogenous depression range from mild to more severe and not all patients exhibit the same symptoms. If the patient is suffering from an underlying health concern or any accompanying mental health illness, the symptoms may become more severe in nature. Like most other forms of depression the symptoms of endogenous depression are classified into 4 distinct categories. Causes Since endogenous depression is a genetic mood disorder, patients predisposed to this form of depression generally develop the condition when the chemical imbalances in the brain become more severe. Stress along with other traumatic circumstances can also influence the onset of this condition but in most cases the patient will not be able to associate any particular event with the advent of the disorder. Endogenous depression can affect people of all age groups and most patients realize that theyre suffering from the disorder only after the symptoms are manifested. Treatment Like any other type of depression, endogenous depression is treatable. While treatments may not seem to work at first, they will over time. It is important for anyone who wishes to work through their depression to be open and honest with their therapist so that the therapist can have a clear understanding about what the patient needs. With the proper information, the therapist can be sure to choose the right medication and/or other treatments that would best work in the patients favor. Depression is not something to ignore or shy away from getting help for. If anyone thinks they might be suffering from depression, they need to consult a therapist so they can get the help they need. Untreated, this mental condition can cause severe problems for the affected person and his or her loved ones. Several cases of untreated endogenous depression result in suicide, mainly because afflicted persons feel depressed for no particular reason and ultimately feel totally helpless and hopeless; they then finally contemplate ending their lives. It is extremely important for family members to ensure that persons suffering from depression endogenous get proper professional help. Family and friends should also ensure that persons suffering from depression are encouraged to engage in activities which keep them occupied and

interacting with people. If possible, affected persons should also try and enroll into an exercise routine, as well as yoga and meditation. These will help calm and relax them on a long-term basis.