Mood disorders are a category of mental health conditions characterised by significant disturbances in a person’s mood and emotional state. The two primary types are:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Marked by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It often involves sleep and appetite changes, fatigue, and difficulties in concentration.
- Bipolar Disorder: Characterised by extreme mood swings, ranging from depressive lows to manic or hypomanic highs. Manic episodes involve heightened energy, reduced need for sleep, and often impulsive or risky behavior.
These disorders can profoundly impact daily functioning and quality of life. Diagnosis is typically based on a detailed clinical assessment of symptoms and history. They are characterised by their significant impact on an individual’s emotional state, are some of the most common mental health issues globally. Recent advances in genetics and psychology provide us with a deeper understanding of these complex conditions.
The Prevalence and Impact of Mood Disorders
Mood disorders, including Major Depression (MD) and Bipolar Disorder (BD), are prevalent worldwide, with MD affecting about 15% and BD about 2.4% of the population. These disorders are leading causes of disability, severely impairing social and occupational functioning, and pose a significant burden on both individuals and society.
Genetic Insights into Mood Disorders
Genetic factors play a considerable role in mood disorders. Studies show moderate to high heritability for these conditions, with BD having a twin-heritability of around 70%. Genomic analyses reveal that mood disorders are highly polygenic, involving thousands of small-effect loci contributing to susceptibility. For instance, the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium identified numerous independent loci associated with both MD and BD.
The AFFECT Study: A Comprehensive Analysis
The Affective Disorders, Environment, and Cognitive Trait (AFFECT) study represents a significant effort to explore mood disorders in a diverse population. This study enrolled over 48,000 participants, including individuals with MD, BD, and controls. Remarkably, a large portion of participants with MD and BD indicated being in an active mood episode upon enrollment. The study also reported early onset ages and high recurrence levels for these conditions.
Cognition and Behavior in Mood Disorders
A critical question is how genetic risk factors influence cognition and behavior in mood disorder patients. Up to 90% of individuals with MD or BD show impairment in various cognitive domains, which are key determinants of functional recovery. Behavioral factors like substance abuse, aggression, and risky behavior are thought to stem from deficits in cognitive processes such as decision-making and executive function.
Conclusion
Understanding mood disorders requires a multifaceted approach that considers genetic, cognitive, and environmental factors. Studies like the AFFECT provide invaluable insights into the complexity of these disorders, paving the way for more effective treatments and interventions. Mood disorders, while challenging, are increasingly becoming decipherable through scientific advancements.
How to get in touch
If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.
