MOOD DISORDERS

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WHAT IS A MOOD DISORDER?

The main mood disorders are major depressive disorder, dysthymia and bipolar disorder.

 

RISK FACTORS

Patients with mood disorders present chemical alterations in the regulation of brain neurotransmitters. The origin of such alteration can be genetic, epigenetic, or the result of an interaction between genes and the environment. This explains the importance of exploring the history of similar diseases in other family members.

For the disease to present itself it is necessary for this to be combined with a series of environmental factors that operate as triggers or perpetuators (i.e., stress). Other factors such as drug use or traumatic situations that generate acute or chronic stress, can also lead to a decompensation of the delicate balance of chemical substances.