In order to better understand the various types of mood disorders, it is important first to explore the key differences between them. This will help to understand better how to diagnose and treat these disorders.
Mood disorders are disorders characterized by a change in mood or predominant symptoms that affect an individual’s mood or behavior. There are four main mood disorders: major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, and substance abuse. Each mood disorder has its own unique symptoms and causes.
Major depression is the most common mood disorder. It affects about one-third of the population and is most common in people over the age of 30. The symptoms of major depression include feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, reduced interest in activities, and a general feeling of sadness or worthlessness.
Bipolar disorder is the second most common mood disorder. It affects about one-seventh of the population and is most common in people over the age of 25. The symptoms of bipolar disorder include a change in mood or predominant symptoms that affect an individual’s mood or behavior. These symptoms can include variations in energy levels, changes in mood, mania, and depression.
Anxiety disorder is the third most common mood disorder. It affects about one in ten people and is most common in people over 25. The symptoms of an anxiety disorder include feeling anxious or having specific fears.
Substance abuse is the fourth most common mood disorder. It affects about one in ten people and is most common in people over 25. The symptoms of substance abuse include using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.
The four main mood disorders are different in how they cause symptoms. Major depression causes feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, and a general feeling of sadness or worthlessness. Bipolar disorder causes a change in mood or predominant symptoms that affect an individual’s mood or behavior. Substance abuse causes by using drugs, alcohol, or tobacco. Lastly, anxiety disorder causes feeling anxious or having specific fears.
