Living with Mood Disorder. Like many other mental illnesses, mood disorders can be destructive if left untreated. The depressions can complicate relationships, especially with close family and friends. A victim's employment and financial standing are also at great risk. They can even result in suicide.
Mood disorders can make a person feel fatigued, worthless, helpless and hopeless.
It is important to realize these feelings are a result of the depression and do not accurately reflect a person's true situation. How Family and Friends Can Help. The most important thing family and friends can do for the depressed person is to help him or her get treatment. This may involve encouraging the patient to stay with the treatment, going with the patient to the doctor, or even monitoring whether the patient is taking medication. Another important way to help is to offer emotional support - understanding, patience, affection and encouragement.