Mood Disorders A Service of CMHS Mood Disorders More than one in four American adults will experience a mental disorder each year. In fact, mental illnesses are among the most common conditions affecting health today. Researchers believe most serious mental illnesses are caused by complex imbalances in the brain's chemical activity. Like other diseases, mental illnesses can be treated. The good news is that most people who have mental illnesses, even serious ones, can lead productive lives with proper treatment.
Mood disorders are one form of serious mental illness.
It is by no means exhaustive, nor does it include the full range of symptoms and treatments. Keep in mind that new research can yield rapid and dramatic changes in our understanding of, and approaches to, mental disorders. If you believe you or a loved one has a mood disorder, seek competent professional advice. Bipolar disorder tends to run in families. This disorder typically begins in the mid-twenties and continues throughout life.