Mood Disorders
A mood disorder is a mental illness characterized primarily by mood swings or an abnormally high or low mood. Most mood disorders are defined and diagnosed by the occurrence of one or more mood episodes, or periods of abnormal happiness or sadness. Mood disorders are outside the bounds of normal fluctuations from sadness to elation.
Causes of mood disorders / mental illness
Researchers believe most serious mental illnesses are caused by complex imbalances in the brain's chemical activity. They also believe environmental factors can play a part in triggering, or cushioning against, the onset of mental illness.
Mood Disorders are treatable
Like other diseases, mental illnesses can be treated. The good news is that most people who have mental illnesses, even serious ones, can lead productive lives with proper treatment.
Common Mood Disorders
Each year, almost 44 million Americans experience a mental disorder. In fact, mental illnesses are among the most common conditions affecting health today. Two of the most common mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder. To learn more about these disorders, follow the links below:
