| Written by Sam Schussler, MS, LAC
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “mood” is defined as a conscious state of mind or predominant emotion. Everyone has experienced moods before, whether they be happy, sad, angry, or otherwise. However, not everyone has experienced a mood episode.
What Are Mood Episodes?
While feelings and moods occur regularly for everyone, mood episodes take these feelings a step further and cause disruption to one’s life and ability to function. There are three types of mood episodes identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM 5), which is the book counselors and social workers use to diagnose mental health conditions. The three mood episodes are depressive, manic, and hypomanic.
Depressive Episodes
Depressive episodes, also known as major depressive episodes, are defined in the DSM as at least a 2-week period where previous functioning has been altered. Five or more of the following symptoms must be present: depressed or irritable mood most of the day, nearly every day; decreased interest or pleasure in most or all activities; significant weight loss or gain, or a decrease or increase in appetite; insomnia or hypersomnia nearly ever day; feeling keyed up or slowed down nearly every day; fatigue or loss of energy; feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt; diminished ability to concentrate; and recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal ideation, or suicide attempt. These symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment of daily functioning. People experiencing depressive episodes may be struggling with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder.
Manic Episodes
A manic episode is defined in the DSM as a period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood that lasts at least one week and is present most of the day, nearly every day. During this period of mood instability, three or more of the following symptoms must be displayed: inflated self-esteem or grandiosity; decreased need for sleep; more talkative than usual; flight of ideas or racing thoughts; distractibility; increase in goal-directed activities or physical agitation; and excessive involvement in high-risk activities (unrestrained shopping sprees, reckless driving, etc.). These symptoms are severe enough to cause a major impairment in functioning and may even necessitate hospitalization. Some people experiencing a manic episode will have psychotic features such as hallucinations or delusions. If a person meets criteria for a manic episode, they will be diagnosed with bipolar 1 disorder.
Hypomanic Episodes
Like manic episodes, hypomanic episodes are defined as a period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive, or irritable mood. Unlike mania, only four days of symptoms are required. The symptoms are the same as that of a manic episode. Those experiencing a hypomanic episode must experience at least three of the following: decreased need to sleep; more talkative than usual; increase in goal-directed behavior; distractibility; have an inflated sense of self-esteem; or engage in high-risk behaviors. The key difference is the impact on functioning. Those experiencing a hypomanic episode may be able to continue their daily lives with moderate impact on functioning. If a person meets the criteria for a hypomanic episode, they will be diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder. People in a hypomanic episode will not need to be hospitalized and do not experience psychotic symptoms. If either of those two events occur, it is considered a manic episode and the person will be diagnosed with bipolar 1.
It is important to be able to recognize mood episodes. These episodes cause significant challenges with functioning as well as safety. If you have concerns that you or a loved one is experiencing a mood episode, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Therapists are available to help you or a loved one overcome these hardships. Participating in therapy can lead to increased insight and awareness, improved quality of life, and reduced unpleasant symptoms. A licensed mental health professional can assist you in overcoming these challenges and getting you to feel confident and secure with your mental health.
Outside of the practice, Sam enjoys crocheting, painting, practicing yoga, and playing games.
My favorite quote is “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul” by William Ernest Henley. To me, this quote shows us that only we are the ones in charge of our lives and that we alone have the power to make positive and lasting change.
Check out Sam’s professional bio here.
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