Mood disorders

Mood disorders include conditions such as major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), bipolar I and II disorders, and post partum disorders. Effective treatment commonly combines psychotherapy, medication when appropriate, lifestyle changes, and ongoing monitoring. Below is a concise guide to therapeutic approaches, what to expect in therapy, and strategies you can use between sessions.

Common therapeutic approaches

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

  • Focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours that maintain low mood or anxiety.

  • Techniques: cognitive restructuring, activity scheduling, behavioural activation, problem-solving.

  • Evidence: strong for depression and helpful for bipolar depression when adapted appropriately.

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

  • Originally developed for borderline personality disorder but useful for mood instability and suicidal behaviour.

  • Teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Emphasis’s acceptance of internal experiences, values clarification, and committed action.

  • Helpful for people who struggle with rumination and avoidance.