In Mood disorders the fundamental disturbances is a change in mood or affect, usually to depression (with or without anxiety) or to elation (mania or hypomania). This mood change is normally accompanied by a change in the overall of activity, and most of the symptoms are either secondary to, or easily understood in the context of, such changes. Most of the disorders tend to be recurrent, and the onset of individual episodes is often related to stressful events or situations.

The term “mania” and “severe depression” are used to denote the opposite ends of affective spectrum; “hypomania” is used to denote an intermediate state without delusion, hallucinations, or complete disruption of normal activities, which is often (but not exclusively) seen as patients develop or recovery from mania.

Manic Episode:

There degrees of severity are specified here (hypomania, mania with and without psychotic symptoms) sharing the common underlying characteristics of elevated mood, and an increase in the quantity speed of physical activity. All the subdivisions of this category should be used only for a single mania episode.

Depressive Episode:

In typical depressive episode in all three levels (mild, moderate and severe), the individual usually suffers from depressed mood, loss of interest, and enjoyment, and reduced energy leading to increased fatigability and diminished activity. Marker tiredness after only slight effort is common. If previous or subsequent affective episodes (depression, mania or hypomania), the disorder should be coded under bipolar affective disorder.

Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, are a group of mental health conditions characterized by disturbances in a person’s emotional state. They can significantly affect a person’s thoughts, behaviors, and overall quality of life. Here are some key points about mood disorders:

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Characterized by prolonged periods of sadness or lack of interest in life (anhedonia).

Symptoms include changes in sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, daily behavior, or self-esteem.

Bipolar Disorder

Involves episodes of mania (extremely elevated mood, energy, and activity) and depression.

Types include Bipolar I (severe mania and depression), Bipolar II (hypomania and severe depression), and Cyclothymic Disorder (less severe mood swings).

Cyclothymic Disorder

Milder form of bipolar disorder with frequent mood swings that are less severe than those in Bipolar I or II.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in the winter when there is less natural sunlight.