Mood Disorders

More than just periods of sadness or irritability, mood disorders can disrupt your sleep, productivity, and self-confidence. The Great Care Health Services team of licensed mental health professionals provides individualized treatment for mood disorders with in-person and virtual visits in Nashville and across Tennessee. Request an appointment over the phone or online to find out how counseling, medications, or an outpatient program can help you cope with mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder. 

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are conditions affecting your mental health that primarily impact your emotional well-being. Your moods may be more extreme than the average person’s (e.g., extreme sadness) to the point that they severely impact your day-to-day life. 

You may have more than one mood disorder diagnosis at the same time. Common ones include:

Depression

Depression includes major depressive disorder and several subtypes, including postpartum depression (depression after having a baby) and seasonal affective disorder (depression that flares up during certain months). It causes hopelessness, sadness, and similar moods. 

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder causes intense shifts between mood extremes. Episodes of depression are contrasted by episodes of mania, which can involve high energy or confidence. 

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

PMDD can include symptoms like irritability, sadness, and insomnia. They flare up at specific times during a person’s menstrual cycle.

How can I tell if I have a mood disorder?

The symptoms of mood disorders vary, but they all have extreme moods in common. 

Most people are generally able to regulate their moods and see normal mood fluctuations in response to different circumstances. If you have a mood disorder, you might feel extreme sadness, intense anger, or elated happiness at inappropriate times. 

Beyond the more general examples of extreme moods like sadness or anger, you might notice:

• Changes in your motivation or energy levels
• Changes in how much you sleep
• Trouble concentrating 
• Low interest in the things you normally enjoy most
• Increased risk-taking behavior

Your intensified moods with a mood disorder may last for an unusually long time. To be diagnosed with a mood disorder, your symptoms must last for several weeks or longer. Mood disorder symptoms can also affect your relationships, your work productivity, or overall wellness.

How are mood disorders treated?

Your mood disorder treatment plan at Great Care Health Services starts with a detailed psychiatric evaluation. During this initial in-person or virtual visit, the team develops an understanding of your symptoms and needs. 

The team’s recommendations for treatment might include:

• Psychiatric medications and medication management
• Individual counseling
• Group therapy sessions
• Family or couples counseling
• An intensive outpatient program (IOP) 
• Lifestyle changes 

You can attend your appointments in person or virtually from the comfort of home. 

For more information, call Great Care Health Services or reach out online to book an in-person or virtual visit today.