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Mood Disorders
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Mental Health Behavior

Mood Disorders

Mood disorders affect a person's everyday emotional state and are distinct from temporary feelings of sadness or irritability.

Overview

Most people feel sad or irritable from time to time. They may say they're in a bad mood. A mood disorder is different. It affects a person's everyday emotional state. Nearly one in ten people aged 18 and older have mood disorders. These include depression and bipolar disorder (also called manic depression).

Management and Treatment

Mood disorders can increase a person's risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases. Treatments include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. With treatment, most people with mood disorders can lead productive lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in omega‑3 fatty acids, consistent sleep schedules, stress‑reduction techniques (mindfulness, deep breathing), and maintaining social connections can all enhance treatment outcomes and reduce relapse risk.
If sadness or irritability lasts longer than a few weeks, interferes with daily functioning, or is accompanied by loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, or thoughts of self-harm, it may indicate a mood disorder rather than a normal mood swing.
ntidepressants or mood stabilizers can help regulate brain chemistry, while psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy) teaches coping skills, helps identify negative thought patterns, and supports medication adherence. Combining both often leads to faster and more sustained improvement.
If you experience sudden, intense feelings of hopelessness, persistent thoughts of suicide, or a dramatic change in behavior that endangers yourself or others, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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