Mood Disorders

Introduction

Mood disorders are generally defined according to criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV; APA, 1994). While the DSM-IV lists 10 mood disorders, only major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder (BD) will be addressed in this entry. MDD is defined as exhibiting either depressed mood or loss of interests or pleasure most of the day nearly every day for at least 2 weeks and accompanied by at least five of the following symptoms: (1) change in weight or appetite; (2) insomnia or hypersomnia; (3) psychomotor agitation or retardation; (4) fatigue or loss of energy; (5) feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt; (6) poor concentration or indecisiveness; and (7) suicidal ideation or attempt. BD involves a manic episode ...