Mood Disorders

What Are Mood Disorders?

Sadness and joy are part of everyday life. Sadness is a natural response to disappointment or loss, while joy often follows success and fulfillment. However, when these emotions become too intense, last too long, or disrupt your ability to function, they may indicate a mood disorder. There are several types of mood disorders, also known as affective disorders.

Types of mood disorders include:

• Depressive disorders, marked by ongoing feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
• Unipolar depression, a primary depressive disorder characterized by persistent depressed mood without manic or hypomanic episodes.
• Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), a chronic form of depression lasting at least two years.
• Bipolar and related disorders, involving cycles of depression and mania (extreme elation or energy).

A depressive disorder is characterized by depressive symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms including changes in sleep, appetite, and energy. Unipolar depression is distinct from bipolar disorder because it does not involve manic or hypomanic episodes. Mood symptoms and depression symptoms can vary in severity and may include depressive episodes that significantly impact daily functioning.

A diagnosis is made when these emotions are persistent and significantly impact your quality of life.

Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Mood disorders can appear early in life, often showing up as changes in behavior, mood swings, or emotional outbursts. Recognizing these signs early allows for better treatment outcomes.

Anxiety disorders and anxiety symptoms frequently co-occur with mood disorders in children and adolescents, making comprehensive assessment essential. Some children with mood disorders may go on to develop a lifetime anxiety disorder, which can significantly impact their long-term mental health.

Our child and adolescent specialists provide a safe, supportive environment where young individuals can express themselves, learn healthy coping skills, and build emotional resilience.

Common Childhood Mood Disorders

Pediatric Depression

Children with depression may show persistent sadness, irritability, or withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed. Pediatric depression can range from mild depression to severe depression, including major depressive episodes. Major depressive disorder and clinical depression are diagnosed when depression symptoms are persistent and significantly impair functioning. Children may experience somatic symptoms, such as changes in sleep or appetite, as part of their depression symptoms. Early diagnosis and compassionate treatment can help restore emotional balance and prevent long-term effects.

Pediatric Bipolar Disorder

This disorder involves alternating episodes of depression and mania. Pediatric bipolar disorder includes bipolar I disorder, characterized by at least one manic episode, and bipolar II disorder, which involves hypomanic and depressive episodes. Bipolar spectrum disorder encompasses a range of conditions, including cyclothymic disorder, which involves milder mood swings. Manic episodes are marked by elevated mood or irritable mood, and the term manic depression or manic depressive illness was historically used for these conditions. Mood stabilizers are often prescribed to help manage mood swings in pediatric bipolar disorder. Our clinicians use evidence-based methods to help children and their families manage mood shifts and maintain stability.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

DMDD is a childhood condition marked by severe temper outbursts that are much more intense than expected for the situation. These emotional reactions often cause difficulty at home, school, and with peers.

Mental Health & Wellness of Southern Utah’s team specializes in identifying and treating DMDD using strategies that promote emotional regulation and long-term well-being.

Diagnosing Mood Disorders

A proper diagnosis starts with a comprehensive evaluation. Clinicians use standardized tools, such as the mood disorder questionnaire, to help diagnose mood disorders. The diagnostic and statistical manual, published by the American Psychiatric Association, provides criteria for diagnosing mood disorders, including unspecified depressive disorder. The diagnostic process includes ruling out other psychiatric conditions, such as psychotic disorders, personality disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Environmental factors, such as stress or trauma, are also considered during the assessment. Psychotic symptoms may be present in some mood disorders and must be differentiated from primary psychotic disorders. We assess emotional patterns, triggers, and overall functioning to gain a clear picture of each person’s unique experience. From there, we develop a tailored treatment plan focused on achieving stability and improving quality of life.

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

We use proven, research-supported therapies for treating mood disorders, including:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – helps identify and change negative thought patterns.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – builds emotional regulation and distress-tolerance skills.
• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) – combines mindfulness practices with traditional therapy to prevent relapse.
• Interpersonal Therapy – focuses on resolving interpersonal problems, role disputes, and transitions to improve mood and relationships.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed for depression. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are considered first-line medications due to their effectiveness and favorable side effect profile compared to older antidepressants.

For individuals with treatment resistant depression, brain stimulation therapy such as transcranial magnetic stimulation or electroconvulsive therapy may be considered.

Postpartum depression is a specific type of mood disorder that may require specialized treatment approaches.

Our goal is to help clients develop practical coping skills, manage symptoms, and regain control of their emotions.

Support and Empowerment

Healing from a mood disorder is more than symptom management, it’s about reclaiming your sense of self. We focus on building confidence, fostering resilience, and creating a supportive network of care to guide you toward lasting recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Emotional Wellness

If you or a loved one may be experiencing a mood disorder, seeking professional help is the first step toward healing.
Contact Mental Health & Wellness of Southern Utah today to schedule an appointment and begin your path to emotional well-being.