Mood disorders are far more life inhibiting than temporary blueness. In fact, these types of mental health issues can impact every aspect of a person’s life, even increasing the chances of addiction. For recovery from these problems and their complications, dual diagnosis programs may be best for a treatment option that addresses addiction and disorders that impact mood.
What Are Mood Disorders?
Mood disorders are mental health concerns that cause severe disturbances and changes in a person’s mood. However, unlike simple shifts in mood that can happen after a bad day, mood disorders persist, regardless of what happens in an individual’s life.
Like other mental health concerns, mood disorders impact people differently with symptoms that vary. But, many people experience some of the following, depending on the types of mood disorders they have:
- Feeling sad or empty
- Persistent low-energy levels or periods of low and high energy alternating
- Low self-esteem or feeling worthless
- Losing interest in hobbies, friends, and things once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite
- Substance abuse
- Thoughts of suicide
Anyone having thoughts of suicide needs immediate treatment in an emergency room followed by mental health counseling and psychological therapy.
Types of Mood Disorders
Several types of mood disorders exist, all of which can have overlapping symptoms. The types of disorders include the following:
- Major depressive disorder
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
- Bipolar disorder
Major Depressive Disorder
The first type of mood disorder, major depressive disorder, also goes by the older term of clinical depression. Both terms refer to the serious nature of this condition, which causes feelings of emptiness, sadness, anxiety, worthlessness, and low self-esteem for at least two weeks. While some people find success with medication for this condition, it can also have accompanying addictions when people try to self-medicate using illicit drugs or alcohol. Therefore, a depression treatment program that can also address addiction is vital to a full recovery.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a variation of major depressive disorder that typically occurs during the darker winter months. A lack of sunlight often triggers depression in those affected by SAD. However, these individuals can also have problems with substance abuse as they try to feel better through using drugs or alcohol. Those with SAD have just as serious a problem as those who have major depressive disorder and need professional psychiatric care.
Bipolar Disorder
Lastly, bipolar disorder is a mood disorder marked by periods of highs and lows. In some people with bipolar disorder, the periods of high energy could come with impulsive behaviors, including substance abuse. The addiction may continue through the low times as individuals seek a way to improve their mood. A dual diagnosis bipolar treatment program can address the special needs of those with this condition who also have substance addictions.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Mood Disorders
Mood disorder treatment programs must meet the client’s needs for mental health support and addiction recovery. These types of programs fall under the category of dual diagnosis treatment programs because they address both needs. People with signs of mood disorders and addiction should get help as soon as possible. Both problems need parallel treatment to prevent either from returning after completing the program. A dual diagnosis program in a psychiatric hospital does exactly this.
Get Help for Mood Disorders in Prescott, AZ, at Viewpoint Dual Recovery
Mood disorders cause serious problems for those they affect. Those with these conditions and accompanying addictions need dual diagnosis help from a facility that addresses both. Phone 855.746.3633 to reach out to Viewpoint Dual Recovery Center in Prescott, AZ, to learn more about our programs. We also have an online contact form to fill out for questions or for more information. Through our treatment programs, we hope to provide each individual with vision, hope, and a new life.
