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Major affective disorders, also known as mood disorders, are mental conditions that can alter the way an individual thinks, feels, or believes. They can occur as the result of a variety of causes, ranging from genetic causes to lifestyle.1
There are also several different types of mood disorders. As a result, they are some of the most common types of mental disorders.2
There are two main types of major affective disorder: major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder. These will be detailed below:
Like with many types of mental disorders, there is no single cause for major affective disorders. However, researchers have been able to pinpoint several different possible causes. Some of the causes of major affective disorders include:
As mentioned previously, major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder are some of the most commonly seen types of major affective disorders. However, they are not the only types. There are almost a dozen other types of mood disorders, some of which include:
Many of the different types of major affective disorder are genetic, which means that they can be inherited from parents or other close family members. They can also manifest on their own in some cases.
However, others, such as depression related to medical illness or substance use, are what are known as co-occurring disorders. Mood disorders in this instance occur as the result of another medical or mental illness.
Because major affective disorders are all separate disorders, they have their own signs and symptoms. However, in order to be classified as a mood disorder, each individual disorder will need to show signs of having an impact on mood and emotional health. As a result, some of the most notable signs and symptoms of major affective disorders include:
You should seek the help of a professional if a major affective disorder is impacting your daily life. Mood disorders like depression can make it difficult to enjoy day-to-day life. Some of the most notable symptoms are fatigue and loss of motivation or interest. As a result, seeking professional help can help restore interest and make connecting with loved ones easier, as well as to help mitigate other symptoms as well.
It is also important to seek professional help if you or a loved one experience symptoms of a mood disorder that involve dangerous or violent outbursts, either towards yourself or others.
Major affective disorders require a diagnosis from a certified mental healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or experienced general healthcare practitioner. However, there is no single test used to determine whether or not a mood disorder is present. Instead, your healthcare provider will walk through several different procedures and guidelines in determining a diagnosis.
The first step in diagnosing a major affective disorder is to conduct a physical examination. While it may seem out of place to focus on a physical examination when dealing with a mental disorder, this allows for the provider to determine whether or not there is a potential physical cause for symptoms. This can include injury or even certain nutritional deficiencies.
Next, the healthcare provider will look into family and personal history, including substance use and medications. This helps establish a context for personal health, which is important because mood disorders can arise from genetics or lifestyle. Lastly, your doctor will provide a diagnosis based on signs and symptoms as well as additional observations, along with steps on how to move forward.
Major affective disorders can be difficult to navigate. Not only can they take a toll on your mental and physical health, but they can also make it difficult to connect with loved ones and enjoy daily life. However, there are treatments available.
Most mental disorders cannot be prevented. However, certain types of major affective disorders can. Seeking treatment for substance use disorders, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle, and speaking to your doctors about your medications and their interactions can help prevent, or at least mitigate symptoms of, mood disorders that are not caused by genetics.
While certain major affective disorders can be prevented, there are also treatment options available for those that cannot. This includes certain medications, such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers, as well as psychotherapy.
Fostering positive mental health and navigating major affective disorders can be difficult. However, at Pacific Beach Health, you’ll find a welcoming environment designed to target concerns and guide you through mood disorder treatment.
Our team features specialists with experience in several areas, and our method utilizes a unique ecopsychology approach that takes advantage of the beautiful beaches and wilderness areas nearby. We believe that focusing on emotional as well as spiritual health through science-backed therapies is the first step in restoring balance and peace to you and your loved ones.
Located in the welcoming coastal atmosphere of Pacific Beach, CA, we help families connect with each other by connecting to the earth. Our eco-psychological approach makes the most of our environment: our clients can engage in guided healing outside of our office while surfing and exploring what beautiful Southern California provides.
Between our commitment to collaboration, emphasis on spirituality, and focus on nature, we are the only outpatient provider of this kind in the Pacific Beach area.
Pacific Beach Health is the community’s only outpatient provider specialized in integrative behavioral health care. If you are looking for help or would like to schedule a consultation, we are ready to help you today.
Licensed by the State of California Department of Health Care Services
License Number: 370202AP
Expiration Date: 11/30/2025.
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