Defining Mood Disorders Human beings go through a wide range of emotions in their day-to-day lives. Occasional sadness is not uncommon and is a natural part of the human experience. However, if we feel low for a sustained period, we may be experiencing a mood disorder.

A mood disorder is a condition that severely impacts a person’s emotional state. It may impact how we relate to others, how we view the world and how we cope with day-to-day life situations and stressors at home and at work.

Common Types of Mood Disorders

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)¹ – commonly used by physicians, psychologists and psychiatrists in North America to diagnose psychiatric conditions – divides mood disorders into two major groups: depressive disorders and bipolar disorders.²

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Also known as clinical depression, a person diagnosed with MDD may experience a variety of symptoms, including feelings of hopelessness and sadness, physical pain (e.g. back pain, headaches), reduced or impaired cognitive abilities (e.g. difficultly focusing on a task or reading a book), loss of appetite (or increased appetite) and loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyable.

Bipolar I Disorder

Formerly known as manic depression, bipolar I disorder is characterized by emotional extremes, including mania (e.g. feelings of euphoria, extreme irritability or increased energy/activity) and depression. During a manic episode, a person with bipolar I may engage in behaviour that is risky and could result in negative or harmful consequences. In some instances, mania may lead to psychosis (a break from reality).

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II disorder is a separate diagnosis from bipolar I. While the manic episodes associated with bipolar I disorder can be severe and dangerous, individuals with bipolar II disorder may experience depression for longer periods. To receive a diagnosis of bipolar II, an individual must have had an episode of depression along with at least one episode of hypomania (a less severe form of mania) but must have no history of manic episodes.

Mood Disorder Treatments

Treatments for mood disorders vary depending on the person, the specific condition and the symptoms. Common forms of treatment include medication, psychotherapy or a combination of the two.

One of the more common and effective types of psychotherapy is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).³ CBT focuses on teaching specific skills to improve symptoms.

Factors like exercise, a healthy diet, reducing the use of alcohol and other substances, light therapy and human connection are all important tools to include in your mental health toolkit.

How It Can Show Up in the Workplace

A person experiencing a mood disorder might not display any symptoms in the workplace and might continue to be productive while others may not. The following could be signs of a mood disorder:⁴

• Taking more time off from work.
• Demonstrating changes in their usual personality (they don’t seem like themselves).
• Appearing less productive or having trouble concentrating on tasks.

If you, a colleague or an employee are experiencing a mental health challenge, contact a health care professional to receive a diagnosis and create a treatment plan.
Learn more about An Introduction to Mental Health
Learn more about How to Support an Employee with Mental Illness
Learn more about Accommodating Mental Illness in the Workplace