At Universal Health Solutions, we recognize that mood disorders vary widely in their symptoms and severity. The most common types include Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), often known simply as depression, which is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities. Bipolar Disorder involves alternating episodes of mania periods of extreme energy and euphoria and depression, marked by exhaustion and low motivation.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) is a chronic form of depression lasting two years or longer, with less severe but long-lasting symptoms. Cyclothymic Disorder is a milder version of bipolar disorder, causing emotional instability through fluctuations of hypomanic and depressive symptoms. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) occurs seasonally, often during winter months when sunlight is limited, leading to sadness, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Lastly, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD), primarily seen in children, involves chronic irritability and frequent temper outbursts disproportionate to the situation.

While symptoms vary depending on the specific condition, common signs of mood disorders include persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in hobbies, fatigue, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, thoughts of death or suicide, and, in bipolar disorder, extreme mood swings. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks and begin to interfere with daily functioning, it may indicate a mood disorder that requires professional attention.