Health Center: Mood Issues

Everyone feels sad from time to time.  Mood variability is a common, “normal” reaction to the ups and downs of life. However, there is a point when one’s depressed mood or mood fluctuations become so intense, long-lasting, or distressing that it can be a sign of a more serious problem for which psychological and/or medical treatment may be helpful. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder including Depression and Bipolar Disorder, the UniversityHealthCenter offers diagnosis and treatment that includes therapy and medication if appropriate.

Major Depression
Some common symptoms of depression include:

• Depressed mood
• Irritability/feeling “snippy”
• Feeling hopeless and helpless
• Diminished interest in things you once enjoyed and looked forward to
• Changes in appetite (increase or decrease)
• Disrupted sleep (too much, too little, lack of restful sleep)
• Lack of energy
• Feelings of being in slow motion and/or keyed up
• Feeling worthless and guilty
• Difficulties with thinking and concentration
• Suicidal thinking and/or behaviors
•   Low self esteem

Related Links:

National Institute of Mental Health: Depression

The Unabridged Student Counseling Virtual Pamphlet Collection

Bipolar Disorder (formerly known as Manic-Depression)

Symptoms:

• Significant mood swings that last at least several days or more
• Impulsive behavior, including taking unnecessary risks or spending money you don’t have
• Increased energy or feeling “revved-up” all the time
• Racing thoughts
• Decrease need for sleep
• More talkative than usual or speech is more rapid than usual
• Inflated self-esteem or feelings of invulnerability
• Easily distracted
• Periods of high mood are followed by periods of depression

Related Links

National Institute of Mental Health: Bipolar Disorder

The Unabridged Student Counseling Virtual Pamphlet Collection