Mood Disorders

Bluebird Psychiatry

PSYCHIATRIC SERVICES IN AUSTIN, TX

Almost 10% of American adults are diagnosed with a mood disorder causing severe emotional symptoms that interfere with healthy functioning. Board-certified psychiatrist, Samantha Symons, MD, and APRN Alexandra Prosk, diagnose and treat mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder at Bluebird Psychiatry in Austin, Texas. If you are struggling with low moods or severe mood swings that are disrupting your life, call Bluebird Psychiatry to schedule a consultation today for expert, compassionate treatment.

512-521-0868

Mood Disorders Q & A

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are psychiatric conditions that cause distorted thoughts and abnormal emotional states. While awareness of emotional states is very helpful for healthy functioning, emotions become a problem when long-lasting extreme mood states are affecting your thoughts, behaviors, and your ability to function.

Depression and bipolar disorder are the two most common mood disorders. Other types of mood disorders include:

Seasonal affective disorder
Postpartum depression
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Cyclothymia

Millions of Americans suffer from depression, which causes prolonged feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and guilt. It can affect behavior and can lead to decreased performance at work, problems in your relationships, and substance abuse.

Bipolar disorder is a condition that causes severe mood swings between high, euphoric moods, and deep depression. Bipolar disorder can severely disrupt your life and prevent you from functioning at home or work.

What are the signs of a mood disorder?

Mood disorders cause a wide range of symptoms and vary in severity. Some of the common signs of mood disorders include:

Depressed moods
Euphoric or manic moods
Feelings of sadness and despair
Reduced concentration
Changes in sleep habits
Appetite changes
Unintended weight loss or gain
Lost interest in hobbies and activities
Increased irritability
Angry outbursts

Mood disorders can also contribute to reckless or self-destructive behaviors, social isolation, self-harm, and substance abuse.

How are mood disorders treated?

The team at Bluebird Psychiatry begins with a comprehensive assessment to evaluate your mental, emotional, and physical health and help clarify your condition. Then, they partner with you and your therapist to relieve your symptoms and restore your quality of life.

Your clinician at Bluebird Psychiatry might prescribe medication to alleviate your symptoms and regulate your mood. They also work with your therapist to provide supportive, compassionate counseling to help you regulate your emotions and reduce unwanted behaviors. They can help you identify physical and social stressors and learn techniques to cope with your triggers.

Your clinician might also help you implement lifestyle changes to improve sleep habits and nutrition. Often, improving your physical health and introducing routine can help you feel better equipped to cope with a mood disorder.

If you are concerned about a mood disorder like depression or bipolar disorder, call Bluebird Psychiatry to set up a consultation today.

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