by Katrina Murphy

Created on: February 10, 2009   Last Updated: February 19, 2009

Our moods affect everything in life- relationships, work performance, everyday activities and feelings of self-worth. Though unhealthy moods come and go, some linger for weeks or even years. Whether by environmental factors or chemical imbalance, mood disorders afflict many people. When you do not feel like your normal self or have trouble meeting the ordinary demands of life, it's time to seek help for a better tomorrow.

Types of Mood Disorders

Uncontrollable feelings of sadness accompany most mood disorders, yet some are cyclical. The symptoms are not always present, but tend to last far too long for our comfort or abilities to manage.

Depression and Major Depression

Depression impairs us. When overwhelmed with sadness and self-doubt, we cannot face everyday activities, which spirals us further into depression. This mood becomes so overbearing that we often feel it is easier to give up than continue the battle.

Mania

Feelings of elation and abundant energy surround mania. Most people do not seek help for manic episodes because the energy and heightened feelings of self-worth feel great. Who wouldn't want to feel on top of the world? Yet, mania often causes problems in everyday life because of erratic behaviors. These feelings encourage compulsions. Restlessness and unordinary behaviors can overwhelm our sense of control and ultimately rob our chance at achievement.

Bipolar Disorder

Cycles of mania and major depression represent Bipolar Disorder, or Manic Depression. Living in two extremes of mood is tiring and makes life too unpredictable. Who can schedule a meeting when unsure of next week's mood? Perhaps bed will be irresistible or the next flight to Las Vegas will demand purchase. Bipolar Disorder hurts relationships and the ability to maintain a routine.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

The winter blues devastate when accompanied by Seasonal Affective Disorder. The absence of adequate sunlight can turn a bad mood into months of severe depression. As seasonal changes assume lengthy periods of the year, SAD is difficult to manage. Once the bright new season appears, anticipation of the slower months promotes yearlong depression.

Treatments for Mood Disorders

Help is available to overcome the giant burden of mood disorders. Consult a therapist for help with identification of the problem. Environmental factors, such as unhealthy relationships, influence depression. Other times, it is the result of chemical imbalance. Therapeutic guidance will find the appropriate treatment,

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