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When Do Mood Disorders
Usually Begin?

Mood disorders affect emotional regulation and can be quite disruptive to a person’s life. Understanding when these disorders occur and the effects they cause is key to mitigating emotional disturbances. Here are a few key factors to remember about the onset of mood disorders.

Types of Mood Disorders and Their Symptoms

Mood disorders are comprised of a few mental health conditions, including:

  • Depressive Disorders – Characterized by persistent feelings of extreme sadness, depression also causes a range of cognitive effects. 
  • Bipolar Disorders – Mood swings are a major feature of bipolar disorders, during which a person can experience extreme fluctuations in their emotions. 
  • Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorders – This disorder primarily affects children and involves extreme irritability, which may result in sudden, unexplained expressions of anger.

When it comes to mental health conditions, mood disorders are very common. They can also impact people of all ages.

Children and Adults Can Experience Mood Disorders

The onset of mood disorders often occurs in adulthood. For example, many people with depression first experience symptoms between the ages of 35 and 40. However, these disorders can also first develop during childhood, although the symptoms might not be what one expects. When depression occurs in childhood, anxiety may be the primary symptom.

The age of onset can affect a person’s experience when it comes to mood disorders. Childhood onset can sometimes result in more severe symptoms, such as an increased frequency of depressive episodes. This highlights the importance of finding suitable treatment for mood disorders.

Treatment for Mood Disorders

Different types of therapy can address and lessen the effects of mood disorders. This includes therapeutic approaches like psychotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy, which establishes coping mechanisms for the symptoms associated with mood disorders.

Some people will also be prescribed medication to manage mental health conditions. In many cases, people with mood disorders experience the greatest benefit through a combination of therapy and medication. With the assistance of medical professionals, it’s possible to overcome the emotional effects of mood disorders to lead a full and happy life.

 
 
 

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