6 Hidden Signs of a Mood Disorder

Centres for Health and Healing - Signs of a Mood Disorder

You may have heard about mood disorders, particularly if you struggle with emotional issues such as sudden mood changes, chronic fatigue, or ongoing feelings of depression and anxiety.

Or perhaps you have recently been diagnosed with a mood disorder and would like further information and resources. 

No matter your reasons, you have come to the right place. Here, we will explore mood disorders further, including the 6 hidden signs of this condition you should be aware of.

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions that impact your emotional state and well-being.

There are several types of mood disorders, including:

  • Bipolar disorder.
  • Major depressive disorder (MDD).
  • Persistent depressive disorder.
  • Cyclothymic disorder.
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

It can be challenging to distinguish between mood disorders and other mental health conditions as the symptoms can very often overlap with other mental health presentations.

Therefore, it is vital to work with a mental health professional who can provide a detailed diagnosis and treatment plan.

How we can help

At Centres for Health and Healing, we diagnose and treat various types of mood disorders, using a blended approach to recovery that ensures lasting healing from the effects of mood disorders and other mental health challenges you may be experiencing.

Although all our programs are customised to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual, a typical treatment program for mood disorder with us often includes a combination of the following:

  • Individual therapy, which involves one-on-one therapy sessions with one of our specialist counsellors to explore and address your mood disorder symptoms and where they may stem from. For instance, you may have unaddressed trauma or other painful experiences that need to be unpacked and worked through to help facilitate the healing process.
  • Group therapy. This treatment is facilitated by our specialist team of therapists, who understand the complexities of mood disorders and their different impacts on each individual. You will attend group sessions with others experiencing similar issues, making you feel more connected, understood, and less alone.
  • Medication, if needed. This may include antidepressants, mood stabilisers, and antipsychotics.
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps you explore any unhelpful thought and behaviour patterns that may contribute to your condition.
  • Lifestyle changes. This may include exploring a more nutritious, balanced diet, cultivating daily exercise, and practising better sleep routines.
Treatment Options - Centres for Health and Healing - Recovery

Our team is incredibly proud of our treatment programs and the high success rate they have in improving our clients’ lives.

We are always happy to provide any further information you may need to help you decide which treatment path to take.

Seeking professional help for a mood disorder is the first, albeit courageous, step to regaining a fulfilling, healthy, and happy life. 

Contact us today if you’d like a confidential and free chat with one of our highly-trained professionals at Centres for Health and Healing in Toronto, Canada.

6 hidden signs of a mood disorder

As mentioned, mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions that can significantly affect your mood and daily functioning. 

The term’ mood disorder’ describes various depressive and bipolar disorders, each influencing your mood and behaviours in distinct ways.

If you have a mood disorder, you may notice your emotions fluctuating from deep depression to intense highs or irritability (manic).

You may also experience the following:

  • Chronic feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness.
  • Hopelessness and helplessness.
  • Low self-esteem and feelings of worthlessness.
  • Pervasive feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
  • Fatigue and low energy.
  • A lack of interest in hobbies and activities you once enjoyed, including sex. 

Although some symptoms are more obvious (such as the ones above), there are more subtle signs associated with mood disorders you should be aware of. 

Note: The signs and symptoms of mood disorders vary significantly depending on the type you have.The symptoms listed below give a general idea of what to look out for and are more subtle than the typical symptoms associated with these disorders.If you think you may have a mood disorder, you must speak to a mental health professional to obtain a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis.

Now, without further ado, here are the 6 hidden signs of a mood disorder.

1. Constant fatigue

Exhaustion Constant fatigue - Signs of a Mood disorder - Centres for Health and Healing

If you complain of constant tiredness or fatigue despite getting adequate sleep and rest each night, this could be a sign you have a mood disorder such as bipolar or major depressive disorder.

The fatigue accompanying mood disorders goes beyond normal tiredness and can severely impact daily functioning, such as work and social life.

You may also struggle to complete everyday tasks, find engaging in activities you once enjoyed difficult, and lack self-confidence and motivation. You feel too exhausted to do anything, and this all-consuming fatigue can make it almost impossible to continue your life as usual.

Moreover, chronic fatigue is a hallmark symptom of depression and can also be observed in the mania episodes experienced in bipolar disorder.  

According to Dr. Beth Gabriel, fatigue is a criterion she looks for in her patients, particularly those who struggle with depression. Gabriel explains that chronic fatigue can be associated with an imbalance in the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Moreover, the symptoms associated with conditions like bipolar disorder can affect your sleep cycle, motivation, and energy levels. 

For instance, you may sleep too much or not enough or experience sleep disturbance.

If a person doesn’t get enough sleep or experiences ongoing disruptions in the sleep cycle, it eventually wears them down. 

When this happens, the individual may become chronically tired and lack energy and motivation.

2. Unexplained health issues

Another hidden sign of a mood disorder is unexplained medical issues. What many don’t know is that mood disorders often present as physical symptoms, including:

  • Digestive issues.
  • Headaches.
  • Skin disorders.
  • Chronic pain.

The above may lead to frequent health visits to your doctor or physician, which can lead to misdiagnosis and a delay in mental health treatment.

If you frequently experience health issues like headaches, stomach upset, and unexplained aches or pains in your body, and your doctor has given you a clean bill of health, it might be time to speak to a mental health professional who can provide you with further support and help.

Mood disorder can manifest in various ways, and chronic health issues are one way the condition presents itself. However, only a trained mental health professional can diagnose you with a mood disorder. 

Therefore, if you consistently experience unexplained medical health issues, and you are otherwise fit and healthy, it’s worth getting in touch with a therapist or counsellor who can provide further advice and assistance.

3. Isolation and withdrawal

Isolation and Withdrawal - Signs of Mood Disorder

Another hidden sign of a mood disorder is self-isolation and social withdrawal.

For instance, individuals with major depressive disorder may gradually withdraw from close relationships and social activities without an apparent reason or cause, such as a busy work schedule or conflict.

If you struggle with depression or low mood due to a mood disorder, it can be tempting to withdraw from the world as a way of coping with the unpleasant symptoms associated with these conditions.

However, persistent withdrawal and isolation can worsen your feelings of depression and loneliness, making it more difficult for you to reach out for help and support when you need it most.

Additionally, research findings suggest social disconnectedness and loneliness can significantly increase your risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

Having few social ties or infrequent social activities and feeling lonely or lacking support can heighten reactions to stress exposure and reduce individuals’ coping abilities. (The Lancet Public Health, January 2020.)

If you find yourself constantly withdrawing from your loved ones and/or avoiding social events and activities, this may be indicative of a mood disorder.

Contact one of our specialists today for further support and advice on mood disorder symptoms and treatment.

4. Chronic irritability

Most of us get irritated occasionally, which doesn’t always signify a mood disorder.

However, chronic irritability and mood swings often indicate that something else may be going on that cannot simply be put down to a ‘bad day at work’ or a stressful week.

For example, increased irritability, sudden mood swings, and anger that seem disproportionate or out of balance to the situation can be telltale signs of a mood disorder such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder or disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.

The rollercoaster of emotions individuals with mood disorders often experience can strain relationships, leading to further complications and isolation for the individual.

5. Language changes 

Unstable relationships - Borderline Personality Disorder

Studies show that individuals with mood disorders such as major depression may use different language patterns than those without these emotional challenges.

For instance, people with depressive disorders tend to use more “I” statements and other self-directed words like “me” because they are constantly in a reflective state.

Additionally, individuals with major depression or other mood disorders like bipolar disorder often speak in black-and-white terms. 

For example, they may frequently use language such as “never” and “always” without any grey areas, leading to constant misunderstandings in their relationships with loved ones and even work colleagues.

Depression can alter thought patterns, leading to a changed perspective on life. 

For example, studies show that people with depression tend to have a more negative perspective on life.

If you suspect a loved one may have a mood disorder such as major depression, you must be aware of any negative phrases such as “I can’t” or “I must,” and expressions of misplaced guilt like “it’s all my fault” as these may be indicative of a mood disorder.

6. Increased substance use

Another hidden sign of a mood disorder is when someone increases their substance use. 

The individual may increase their alcohol intake or use drugs like cocaine or cannabis to cope with the symptoms of mood disorder.

Substances like alcohol encourage the release of endorphins, which are natural stress relievers in our bodies that can (temporarily) make us feel good.

Due to the feel-good chemicals induced by substances such as drugs or alcohol, we may appear more confident and social to others, making it even more challenging for others (and ourselves) to spot the signs of a mood disorder.

Another thing to watch out for when it comes to recognising the hidden signs of a mood disorder is when an individual turns to alcohol (or drugs) more frequently to cope with stress or negative emotions or needs more of the substance to feel its effects. 

Other signs of a mood disorder to look out for include:

  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Feeling’’flat” or unbothered about things you would usually care about.
  • Problems with decision-making.
  • Eating more or less than usual.
  • Anxiety.
  • Thoughts of suicide. 

As mentioned, there are various types of mood disorders that have their own diagnostic criteria, symptoms, and behaviours.

If you would like to learn more about the different types of mood disorders, click here for further information and resources.

Treatment for mood disorders

Centres for Health and Healing - Treatment Options - Group Therapy

Treatment for a mood disorder often begins with a comprehensive assessment and detailed diagnosis by a healthcare professional. 

The above allows your healthcare provider to find out whether you have a mood disorder such as major depression or bipolar disorder.

Once an accurate diagnosis has been determined, your therapist will devise a treatment plan based on your needs and preferences.

Treatment for mood disorders often includes a combination of talk therapy (psychotherapy), medication, and sometimes, both.

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), family-focused therapy, and other forms of therapeutic intervention can be crucial in managing mood disorder symptoms and preventing their recurrence.

For instance, CBT focuses on addressing maladaptive thought and behaviour patterns that may cause or worsen mood disorder symptoms, helping individuals to develop healthy coping skills and relapse prevention strategies.

For some individuals with depressive disorders, other interventions, such as brain stimulation therapies, might be recommended. 

These treatments include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which are generally considered secondary treatments and are often used when other approaches are unsuccessful.

To learn more about mood disorder treatment or to speak to a mental health specialist in confidence, contact our friendly team in Toronto today, who will gladly help.

We are always here to answer any questions and lend a compassionate ear.

Please speak to a member of our team today.

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