Mood Disorders in Psychiatry

The DSM-5 divides mood disorders into two main categories: Bipolar and Depressive Disorders. Bipolar disorders involve periods of mania or hypomania, while depressive disorders are characterized by periods of low mood and energy.

Defined by one or more episodes of depression, each lasting at least 2 weeks. These episodes are marked by symptoms like depressed mood, loss of interest, and fatigue.

Characterized by episodes of hypomania lasting at least 4 days, along with episodes of major depression.

Beyond mood changes, physical symptoms (like fatigue and sleep disturbances) and self-destructive behaviors are also common in patients with mood disorders.

An episode of mania in Bipolar I disorder lasts at least 1 week, with symptoms like elevated mood, inflated self-esteem, and racing thoughts.

Marked affective lability (mood swings) associated with menses. It's a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome.

Characterized by hypomania and dysthymia (mild depression) occurring over a 2-year period (1 year in children). There are no distinct episodes of illness.

Norepinephrine and serotonin are the key neurotransmitters associated with mood disorders. Their levels are often imbalanced in patients.

Depression continuing over a 2-year period (1 year in children), with no clear-cut episodes. Symptoms are milder but chronic.

Dopamine activity may be decreased during depressive episodes and increased during manic episodes. It plays a role in motivation and pleasure.

Up to three times more common in women compared to men.

1. Serious prior suicide attempt, 2. Age over 45, 3. Alcohol dependence, 4. History of rage and violent behavior, 5. Male sex.

Reported to be moderately reduced in patients with manic-depressive disorder. MAO is an enzyme that breaks down neurotransmitters.

Concordance rate of monozygotic (identical) twins is about 75%. This suggests a strong genetic influence.

None of the above. The risk factors were already listed in order from highest to lowest risk.