Over the course of life, you will experience situations that may cause you to get agitated or irritated. It’s not unusual to experience ups and downs—everybody does. However, if you have trouble rebounding or finding that right emotional balance in response to whatever is going on in your life, you may be suffering from depression or another mood disorder.

Depression is often difficult for individuals to discuss because of stigma. Moreover, some may feel that there is no one that can understand their issues and thus resist discussing them with anyone. The lack of a constructive outlet can exacerbate depression and/or other mood disorders.

At Houston Psychotherapists, we have clinicians on staff who can help you navigate mood disorders such as depression and offer insight in a caring and attentive space. We are committed to helping you regain the right balance in your life. Houston Psychotherapists has clinicians on staff who have worked with patients with severe depression and mood disorders.

What are the common types of mood disorders?

According to Johns Hopkins Hospital, the most common types of mood disorders include:

  • Major depression, the loss of interest in usual activities, feelings of hopelessness and/or sadness, and other associated symptoms.
  • Bipolar disorder, a condition where you may experience alternating periods of depression and periods of elevated mood or mania.
  • Mood disorders related to other health conditions, such as cancer, chronic illnesses, injuries, that can cause you to exhibit signs of depression
  • Mood disorders that are a result of substance use including, but not limited to, side-effects of prescribed medicine, drug and alcohol abuse, or exposure to toxic substances.

What could be causing my mood disorder? What are the signs?

Causes of depression and mood disorders may vary from current life events that are taking an emotional toll on you to issues that may simply have to do with genetics.

Common signs of mood disorders include: (Please note that these differ from person to person.)

  • Ongoing feelings of sadness and emptiness
  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Feeling inadequate, worthless, or helpless
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Thoughts or desires to harm yourself, including suicide
  • Relationship issues
  • Sleeping issues (either having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much)
  • Loss of energy
  • Difficulty with concentration or focus
  • Physical ailments such as headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue that do not improve with treatment
  • A desire to run away
  • Intense sensitivity to failure or rejection
  • Irritation
  • Hostility
  • Aggression

How we can help

Our clinicians are focused on providing every client the tools they will need to move forward and succeed in their lives. We are all committed to meeting your needs in a personalized, nonjudgmental, and compassionate way.

If you feel that you are experiencing issues with mood disorders and you need counseling and treatment, we can help. Contact our practice today to set up an appointment with one of our clinicians. Please note that our clinicians are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medication.