Introduction
Mood disorders, formerly referred to as affective disorders, are among the most common categories of psychiatric conditions. They affect an estimated 10% of the population and involve disturbances in emotional state that are more severe and persistent than typical fluctuations in mood. These conditions can significantly impair a person’s ability to function in daily life, including work, relationships, and self-care.
Manic Behavior
Mania is characterized by an abnormally elevated or irritable mood, often accompanied by increased energy and decreased need for sleep. Individuals experiencing mania may appear overly joyful, euphoric, or excessively active.
Common features of manic episodes include:
- Reduced or absent need for sleep, sometimes for several days
- Hyperactivity and increased goal-directed behavior
- Easily distracted attention span
- Rapid, pressured, and excessive speech
- Racing thoughts or flight of ideas
- Erratic thinking patterns or delusional beliefs
During acute manic episodes, patients may engage in risky or impulsive behaviors that place them in dangerous situations. Insight is often limited, and many individuals do not recognize that they are experiencing a psychiatric crisis, which may reduce willingness to accept treatment.
Depression
Depression is one of the leading causes of disability in individuals aged 15–44 and affects females more frequently than males. It can occur at any age, with the average onset around early adulthood.
Depressive disorders are characterized by persistent sadness or loss of interest that interferes with social, occupational, or daily functioning. Symptoms may present in episodes or develop gradually over time.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Persistent sad or flat affect, tearfulness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite (increase or decrease)
- Sleep disturbances, most commonly insomnia
- Psychomotor slowing or, in some cases, agitation
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation in severe cases
Chronic depression may present as persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), where symptoms occur most days for at least two years, often leading to long-term emotional and functional impairment. In more severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary, especially when there is a risk of self-harm or suicide.
Diagnostic Features of Depression (GAS PIPES)
Depression symptoms can be summarized using the mnemonic GAS PIPES:
- G – Guilt: Excessive self-blame and feelings of guilt
- A – Appetite: Changes in appetite or weight
- S – Sleep: Sleep disturbances, commonly insomnia
- P – Poor concentration: Difficulty focusing or completing tasks
- I – Interest loss: Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed (anhedonia)
- P – Psychomotor changes: Slowed or agitated movements
- E – Energy loss: Persistent fatigue or low energy
- S – Suicidal ideation: Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Mood disorders require careful assessment due to their impact on functioning and their association with increased risk of self-harm, especially in depressive states or severe manic episodes.