Treating Affective (Mood) Disorders

Affective disorders are disorders of your mood. They include depression and bipolar disorder (also called manic-depression). These disorders are often treated with medications and therapy. Your health care provider can give you more information about the treatments that are appropriate for you.

Treatments for Depression

Most people with depression do best with both antidepressants and therapy. Antidepressants are medications that help you feel less depressed. If your symptoms are mild, you may do well with therapy alone. In some cases, your doctor may suggest electroconvulsive therapy. This uses electric impulses to ease depression. It may succeed when other treatments have failed.

Treatments for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is often treated with the medication lithium. It helps you feel better by keeping your moods more even. It can also help prevent future mood swings. Sometimes you may take newer medications that work much like lithium. Talking to a therapist or counselor may also be part of your treatment. Your therapist can help you work out problems and heal relationships. And he or she can provide support when you need it most.

Finding Help

Affective disorders can be treated. Your health care provider, hospital, or mental health clinic can help.