“These are the most common types of mood disorders: Major depression. Having less interest in usual activities, feeling sad or hopeless, and other symptoms for at least 2 weeks may indicate depression. Dysthymia. This is a chronic, low-grade, depressed, or irritable mood that lasts for at least 2 years. Bipolar disorder. This is a condition in which a […]

“Mood disorders can often be treated with success. Treatment may include: Antidepressant and mood stabilizing medicines—especially when combined with psychotherapy have shown to work very well in the treatment of depression Psychotherapy—most often cognitive-behavioral and/or interpersonal therapy. This therapy is focused on changing the person’s distorted views of himself or herself and the environment around […]

“Many factors contribute to mood disorders. They are likely caused by an imbalance of brain chemicals. Life events (such as stressful life changes) may also contribute to a depressed mood. Mood disorders also tend to run in families. Who is at risk for mood disorders? Anyone can feel sad or depressed at times. However, mood […]

“Depending on age and the type of mood disorder, a person may have different symptoms of depression. The following are the most common symptoms of a mood disorder: Ongoing sad, anxious, or “empty” mood Feeling hopeless or helpless Having low self-esteem Feeling inadequate or worthless Excessive guilt Repeating thoughts of death or suicide, wishing to […]

“A mood disorder is a mental health class that health professionals use to broadly describe all types of depression and bipolar disorders. Children, teens, and adults can have mood disorders. However, children and teens don’t always have the same symptoms as adults. It’s harder to diagnose mood disorders in children because they aren’t always able […]

Fears in childhood and adolescence are a part of normal development. Anxiety is a normal response to sudden, threatening changes facing a child. These changes may include real danger or perceived loss of control or self-esteem. The symptoms of anxiety vary from individual to individual, and most studies show that symptoms of anxiety in children […]

Children with anxiety may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms: Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge Avoidance or withdrawal Irritability Difficulty attending school or separating from parents Excessive worry about future and past events Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomachaches The Quality Behavioral Health Program is designed to diagnose and […]

The positive effects of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for child anxiety have been well documented. The way we think about a current or future event or situation can change the way we feel and influence what we do. Mom returning late from a trip to the supermarket can generate negative, fearful thoughts (she’s probably had […]