Mood Disorders Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

By We Level Up WA | Editor Yamilla Francese | Clinically Reviewed By Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS, Director of Quality Assurance | Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Last Updated: May 22, 2023

Adjustment Disorder With Mixed Anxiety And Depressed Mood

Adjustment disorder with anxiety and depressed mood is a specific subtype of adjustment disorder, a mental health condition characterized by emotional and behavioral reactions to stressful events. In this particular subtype, individuals experience a combination of symptoms related to both anxiety and depression following a significant life stressor.

People with Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood may exhibit persistent sadness, hopelessness, worry, and restlessness. They may also experience difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and a general sense of unease or tension. These symptoms often emerge within three months of the stressful event and tend to subside once the individual adapts to the new circumstances or the stressor is resolved.

The distinguishing feature of this subtype is the presence of both anxious and depressive symptoms occurring simultaneously. It reflects the emotional and psychological struggle individuals face when trying to cope with the impact of a challenging life event.

It’s important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Adjustment Disorder with Mixed Anxiety and Depressed Mood. Mental health professionals can provide support, offer coping strategies, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address the underlying stressor and alleviate the associated symptoms. Individuals can regain their emotional well-being and adapt to challenges with appropriate intervention.

Mood Disorder Questionnaire PDF

Mood Disorders Statistics

Estimates show that nearly 1 in 5 Americans have a mental illness, mood disorders included. Around 20.9 million American adults aged 18 and older have a mood disorder. Mood disorders can affect anyone at any point in life. Many factors can contribute to the development of mood disorders, and while some of the population may appear more vulnerable, no ethnic or age group is left out. 

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Mood Disorder vs Personality Disorder

Mood disorders and personality disorders are distinct categories of mental health conditions. Mood disorders primarily involve emotional and regulation disruptions, while personality disorders involve enduring patterns of thoughts, behaviors, and interpersonal functioning. Mood disorders have episodic periods of intense symptoms, while personality disorders are stable and persistent. Mood disorders affect emotional well-being, while personality disorders impact overall functioning and relationships. Comorbidity can occur, and proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.

• Fatigue or Lack of Energy: Feeling constantly tired, lacking energy, or experiencing a general weakness.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Excessive Guilt: Persistent feelings of self-blame, worthlessness, or excessive guilt, even when not warranted.
• Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions: Finding it challenging to focus, concentrate, or make decisions, often accompanied by indecisiveness.
• Psychomotor Agitation or Retardation: Restlessness or slowed physical and mental movements.
• Recurrent Thoughts of Death or Suicidal Ideation: Persistent thoughts about death, dying, or contemplating suicide. It is essential to seek immediate help if experiencing these thoughts.
• Changes in Psychomotor Activity: Unusual changes in physical movements, such as being noticeably more restless or slower than usual.
• Irritability or Agitation: Feeling easily agitated, irritable, or having a short temper.

It’s important to remember that these symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on the specific mood disorder. Suppose you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms or any other concerning changes in mood. In that case, it is recommended to consult a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder Symptoms

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) symptoms typically manifest during childhood and are characterized by severe and recurrent temper outbursts. Here are some key symptoms:

• Frequent Temper Outbursts: The child experiences frequent and severe temper tantrums that are grossly disproportionate to the situation and inconsistent with their developmental level. These outbursts can be verbal and/or physical in nature.
• Chronic Irritability: The child displays a persistently irritable or angry mood most of the day, nearly every day, between the outbursts. This irritability is evident to others and is not solely related to the outbursts.
• Duration and Frequency: The symptoms of temper outbursts and chronic irritability occur for at least 12 months, with very few symptom-free periods lasting more than a few days.
• Age of Onset: DMDD symptoms typically begin before age 10, although the diagnosis cannot be made before age 6 or after age 18.
• Impairment in Multiple Settings: The symptoms of DMDD cause significant impairment in social, academic, or other important areas of functioning. The child may have difficulties with peers, relationships, and school performance.

It is important to note that DMDD symptoms must be differentiated from normal age-appropriate temper tantrums and other mental health conditions like bipolar or oppositional defiant disorder. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

• Supportive Relationships: Building a strong support system, including friends, family, and support groups, can provide emotional support, understanding, and encouragement throughout the treatment process.
• Stress Management Techniques: Learning stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises, mindfulness meditation, and breathing exercises, can help individuals cope with stressors that contribute to mood disturbances.
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): ECT may be considered in severe cases or when other treatments are ineffective. It involves brief electrical stimulation of the brain to induce a controlled seizure, leading to a therapeutic effect on mood.

It’s important to note that treatment approaches may vary depending on the specific type and severity of the mood disorder. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional is essential to determine the most appropriate and effective treatment plan.

• Antipsychotics: Atypical antipsychotic medications, such as quetiapine (Seroquel) and olanzapine (Zyprexa), may be prescribed to manage symptoms of bipolar disorder, particularly during manic or mixed episodes. They can also be used as an adjunct to antidepressants in certain cases of treatment-resistant depression.
• Benzodiazepines: These medications, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan), are sometimes prescribed for short-term relief of severe anxiety or agitation. However, they are generally not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence.

It’s important to note that medication options, dosage, and duration of treatment vary based on individual needs, symptoms, and the specific mood disorder being addressed. Medication management should always be overseen by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or prescribing physician, who can monitor the individual’s response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments.

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