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Mood Disorders

Mood Disorders services offered in Bel Air, Perry Hall and Silver Spring, MD

Many people feel sad or down from time to time; however, people with a mood disorder experience consistent feelings of sadness or irritability. At American Psychiatric Care in Bel Air, Silver Spring, and Perry Hall, Maryland, their team provides comprehensive psychiatric care for those with mood disorders. To schedule a consultation, call the office or request an appointment online today. 

Mood Disorders Q&A


What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders are mental health conditions that affect your daily emotional state. There are many types of mood disorders, including:

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

MDD is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness. During your assessment, the physician will screen for several other symptoms present in MDD.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder causes episodic mood changes that fluctuate between depression and mania (feelings of elation).

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression affects women after they have a baby. Women with postpartum depression may experience mood swings, anxiety, crying spells, and persistent feelings of sadness. They may also find it challenging to take care of themselves and their baby. 

Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)

With PDD, you have a low mood that lasts two or more years. 

What are the symptoms of mood disorders?

Symptoms of mood disorders vary depending on the type. Common symptoms include:

  • Sadness or hopelessness
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Change in sleep habits
  • Change in eating habits
  • Feelings of guilt or shame
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Sensitivity to failure or rejection
  • Physical pain that has no known cause

If you have symptoms of a mood disorder, schedule a consultation with a psychiatrist at American Psychiatric Care. 

What happens during a consultation for mood disorders?

The psychiatrists and therapists at American Psychiatric Care take a patient-centered approach to care and conduct a thorough evaluation during your initial consultation at her concierge psychiatry practice. She reviews your medical and mental health history, as well as your family history.

The team at American Psychiatric Care also conducts mental health screening tests that help her formulate an accurate diagnosis. One of the psychiatrists may also request lab work to rule out a medical condition that might explain your symptoms.

How are mood disorders treated?

The psychiatrists and therapists at American Psychiatric Care customize your mood disorder treatment plan based on the type of mood disorder you have and the severity of your symptoms. Their team uses a combination of medication management and therapy to treat mood disorders and optimize your emotional and mental well-being.

Before making specific recommendations, your psychiatrist discusses their treatment recommendations with you, and together you develop a plan that best meets your needs. Our team offers in-office and telemedicine appointments for follow-up care.

Mood disorders are chronic conditions that affect every aspect of your life. To take back control of your mental, emotional, and physical well-being, call American Psychiatric Care or request a consultation online today.