Mood disorders affect the way a person feels, thinks, and functions. They go beyond temporary emotional reactions to life events, instead representing ongoing conditions that require clinical care.

These disorders can develop from a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, stressful life experiences, or medical conditions. Without treatment, mood disorders may interfere with work, school, relationships, and overall well-being, but with proper support, many people achieve long-term stability and recovery.

Common mood disorders include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (Depression) – Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and hopelessness that lasts for weeks or longer.

• Bipolar Disorder – Shifts between depressive episodes and periods of elevated or irritable mood (mania or hypomania).

• Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder) – Chronic low mood lasting two years or more, often less severe but longer-lasting than major depression.