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Mood Disorders
A person with a mood disorder may experience extremely low mood (dysphoria) or unusually high mood (mania) or both. This is different from “having the blues” or “feeling excitable and happy”.
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​​​A person with a mood disorder may experience extremely low mood (dysphoria) or unusually high mood (mania) or both. This is different from “having the blues” or “feeling excitable and happy”.

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Individuals with bipolar disorder experience moods that swing between mania and dysphoria over distinct periods of time, and this affects their ability to function in daily life. As its symptoms may seem like separate problems, bipolar disorder is often not easily spotted when it starts.

Bipolar disorder often develops during late adolescence or early adulthood, and can be managed with medications and psychotherapy



Individuals with depression experience dysphoria for a prolonged period of time for at least 2 weeks. For many, there is a sense of emptiness and hopelessness. They may feel guilty and lose interest in the t​​hings they used to enjoy. Other signs include constant tiredness, persistent aches or pains, and suicidal thoughts.

 

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in Singapore and the world. Left untreated, depression is the number one cause for suicide. Many treatment options are available and mental health professionals can help you evaluate the options.
















Getting Help

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of a mood disorder, or are feeling unsure, seek professional help by contacting CHAT for a mental health check.

Practical tips for managing mood disorders

As you consider where to seek help, you could try:

  • Have regular sleep​
    Irregular sleep patterns can trigger a manic or depressive episode. Set an alarm and get up at the same time every day.
  • Build structure in your life
    Developin​g and sticking to a daily routine, where there is a regular pattern of activities, can help stabilise mood. Include set times for eating, working, socialising, relaxing and sleeping into your routine
  • Eat your Omega-3
    Omega-3 fatty acids may improve mood and decrease mood swings in bipolar disorder. You can get Omega-3 supplements or eat foods rich in Omega-3, such as, salmon, sardines, soybeans, pumpkin seeds and walnuts.
  • Get Moving!
    ​Doing an activity, no matter how small it is, helps in breaking the vicious cycle of your depressive moods. It may seem counter-intuitive, but increasing your activity level by going for a walk, improves your energy and motivation levels. As you feel more hopeful, you will engage in more activities, which will further improve your mood.