There are several types of mood disorders. Some of the more prevalent types include major depressive disorder, Bipolar disorder, Cyclothymic disorder and Dysthymic disorder. In all of these disorders, physiological and neurological functions in the body fail to regulate mood properly.

People with mood disorders may experience extreme emotional and mood changes like those associated with Bipolar and Cyclothymic disorder. While Bipolar is more extreme than Cyclothymic disorder, both disorders result in uncontrollable cycles of depression and elation. Sometimes these mood changes can happen abruptly with no reason at all.

Persons who suffer from Bipolar disorder routinely alternate between depressive behaviors and erratic over-the-top behaviors. Both states of this disorder can be dangerous to the sufferer and those around them. Even though Cyclothymic disorder does not result in as dangerous behaviors as Bipolar disorder, persons who suffer from this disorder may find it impossible to hold down a job or maintain successful relationships for very long.

In major depressive disorder and Dysthymic disorder, on the other hand, sufferers experience chronic depression for an extended period of time (more than 2 years). With these mood disorders people may find it impossible to function and perform daily tasks. Some of the main symptoms of these disorders include loss of appetite, change in sleeping pattern, lethargy, bouts of crying, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, feelings of guilt, inability to think and concentrate, disinterest in daily responsibilities, and thoughts of suicide.

These disorders cannot be controlled by will and require medical attention. In most cases, a combination of medication and psychotherapy is used to combat the illness.