Question

Most admit that there is a stigma associated with mood disorders. Many persons implicitly (and sometimes explicitly) presume that mood disorders occur only in persons who are weak or who "enjoy being sad". Discuss the effect such attitudes might have on persons with mood disorders (reluctance to admit they have a problem or to seek help). what are some ideas to educate the public about causes of these disorders, thus alleviating the stigma associated with them?

Answer 1

The mood disorder is classified as an illness and can happen to any individual. There are basically 3 classifications for mood disorders. They are depressive or unipolar type, bipolar type, and etiological type. Examples for unipolar type include Major depressive disorder and dysthymic disorder. Examples for bipolar type include bipolar 1, bipolar 2 and cyclothymic disorder. Examples for etiological include those that happen as a side effect of medicines or one happening due to substance abuse.

Among all types given here, the most common ones are the major depressive disorder coming under unipolar type. There are basically 9 signs which are seen as a perfect diagnosis for mood depressive disorder. These 9 signs are disruption with respect to one's mood, sleep, interest, guilt, energy, concentration, appetite, psychomotor activity, and increased suicidal tendency. As per DSM 5, if any 5 or more of these signs are seen in a patient for more than 2 weeks, then the diagnosis can be confirmed.

Having said the clinical aspect behind the mood disorders, it must be noted that it is completely wrong to think of etiology for mood depressive disorder being solely associated with features such as being weak or enjoying being sad. One must understand that there is a wide range of biological and psychological reasons which are responsible for mood disorders. Biological factors include abnormalities in amine neurotransmitters, neuroendocrine abnormalities, and hereditary/ genetic factors. Psychological factors include major tragic events in life, loss of hope etc.