17843 Mood Disorders
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Mood disorders are mental health conditions that affect how a person feels emotionally. They can make a person feel very low, very high, or swing between these extremes. Depression and bipolar disorder are common mood disorders.
Key facts
- Mood disorders are very common and treatable.
- Most people with a mood disorder improve with the right support.
- Having a mood disorder is not a sign of weakness or a personal failing.
Yes. Mood disorders are among the most common mental health problems worldwide. Many people experience depression or bipolar disorder at some point in their lives.
Mood disorders can affect people of any age, background, and income level. They often start in the late teens or early twenties, but can appear at any time.
Symptoms
- Thoughts about hurting yourself or someone else
- Acting on suicidal thoughts, or having a plan to die
- Severe mania that feels out of control, such as not sleeping for days or making reckless decisions
- ⚠Feeling that life is not worth living, but you are not in immediate danger
- ⚠Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- ⚠Sudden or dramatic changes in behaviour
- ⚠Being unable to eat, sleep, or take care of yourself for several days
Common symptoms
- Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless for long periods
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities you used to enjoy
- Feeling tired or having no energy
- Changes in sleep: sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless
- Having racing thoughts or feeling unusually upbeat and active
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Symptoms in children
- Irritability or frequent mood swings
- Clinginess or fears about losing parents
- Stomach aches or headaches with no clear cause
- Trouble at school or a sudden drop in grades
- Withdrawing from friends or family
Symptoms in older adults
- Memory problems or confusion that look like dementia
- Losing interest in social activities
- Poor appetite and weight loss without a medical reason
- Feeling tired and slowing down
- Talking about being worthless or a burden
- Physical aches and pains without a clear cause
Causes
Main causes
- Differences in brain chemistry or function
- Genetics, meaning a family history of mood disorders
- Major life events such as loss, abuse, or trauma
- Ongoing stress at home, work, or school
- Other medical conditions that affect the brain and body
Risk factors
- Having a family member with a mood disorder
- Experiencing trauma, abuse, or severe loss
- Chronic stress or unemployment
- Substance misuse, including alcohol and recreational drugs
- Isolation or lack of social support
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- See a doctor or mental health service today if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide that are not an immediate emergency.
- Contact a doctor today if your mood is changing very quickly or you are unable to care for yourself.
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have been feeling low, anxious, or hopeless for more than two weeks.
- If mood swings are affecting your work, school, or relationships.
- If you are concerned about your mood in any way.
Diagnosis
Your doctor will have a conversation with you about your mood, thoughts, and behaviour over the past weeks or months. They may ask you to fill out a questionnaire, and they may speak to a family member (with your permission).
Tests that may be done
- A physical examination
- Blood tests to check for other conditions that can affect mood, such as thyroid problems
- A structured mental health assessment
What to expect at your appointment
A diagnostic appointment is a normal conversation, not a test. There are no right or wrong answers. Your doctor is there to understand your experience and work with you on the next steps.
Treatment
Treatment for mood disorders usually involves talking therapies, support, and sometimes medication. Many people feel better with a combination of these. Treatment works best when you and your doctor plan it together and review it regularly.
Self-care at home
- Keep a regular daily routine
- Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day
- Set small, realistic goals
- Stay connected with people you trust
- Limit caffeine and avoid alcohol or recreational drugs
Medical treatments
Your doctor may recommend talking therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), to help you manage thoughts and feelings. They may also consider medication to balance your mood. Mood medications are prescribed only by a doctor, and the choice of medicine is personalised to your type of mood disorder and your individual health. Treatment is always discussed with you before you start.
Living with this condition
Living with a mood disorder can be challenging, but many people lead full and active lives. Day to day, it helps to stick to a routine, take any prescribed medicine exactly as agreed, and attend follow-up appointments. Be patient and kind to yourself on difficult days.
Lifestyle tips
- Exercise regularly, even if it is just a short walk
- Build a steady sleep schedule
- Practice relaxation techniques like slow breathing or mindfulness
- Spend time outdoors or in natural light
- Reduce alcohol and recreational drug use
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet supports your overall mood. Try to eat regular meals that include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and proteins. Gentle exercise each day can also lift your mood and reduce stress.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Mood disorders can affect your self-esteem, relationships, and performance at work or school. It is normal to feel frustrated or anxious. Talking with a therapist can help you build skills to manage stress and protect your emotional wellbeing.
Prevention
You cannot always prevent a mood disorder, but you can reduce the risk of severe episodes. Learning to manage stress, getting enough sleep, staying active, and seeking help early when symptoms appear are all helpful.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening test for mood disorders, but your doctor may ask about your mood during general check-ups. It is a good idea to tell your doctor if you have been worried about your feelings.
Complications
If left untreated
- Symptoms may become worse or last longer
- Difficulties at work, school, or home
- Relationship problems and isolation
- Poor physical health, including heart problems and weakened immunity
- Substance misuse or self-harm
- In the most severe cases, suicide
Long-term outlook
With the right support and treatment, most people with mood disorders improve and recover. It may take time, but many people return to their usual activities and find joy in life again. There is real hope, and help works.
Find support
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.