Mood Disorder

Mood disorder defined:  A dramatic change in mood lasting at least two weeks or longer in duration, and making a substantial negative impact on most major life areas.

There are eight basic mood disorders, although within each mood disorder there can be an elaborate spectrum.  The eight mood disorders are listed below.

1. Major Depression

2. Dysthymic Disorder

3. Bipolar Disorder

4. Cyclothymic Disorder

5. Bipolar Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

6. Mood Disorder Due To General Medical Condition

7. Substance Induced Mood Disorder

8. Mood Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

The mood disorders using the phrase "not otherwise specified" are to take into account a mood disorder that does meet the specific criteria for one of the primary mood disorders.

Many mistakenly believe that a disorder such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a mood disorder.  It makes sense to a degree, high anxiety certainly does impact mood, right?  But there is a category termed Anxiety Disorders where this particular disorder resides.

Here is a link for those of you who may be searching for information on depression.