The Benefits and Drawbacks of Medication and Therapy for Mood Disorders

Despite being an essential treatment tool for several mental health conditions, medication has been a point of discussion for a long time. This could be due to the side effects or the persistent taboo surrounding it. People might either look at medication as the only way to achieve relief from symptoms or might weigh the cons of being prescribed medication. When it comes to mood disorders like bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, and cyclothymia, medications can be effective alongside therapy.

Also read: Depression Medication: How it Works and the Common Side Effects

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders occur when your emotional state is severely affected by inconsistent moods that interfere with your daily life and ability to perform activities. Your mood may range from extreme lows (sad or depressed) to extremely high (manic). 

With the recent upgrade in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), mood disorders have been broadly categorized into two groups: bipolar disorders and depressive disorders. The type of mood disorders are:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)

• Bipolar I disorder

• Bipolar II disorder

• Cyclothymic disorder

• Substance/medication-induced bipolar disorder

• Hypomania 

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

Read more about What is Bipolar Disorder - Signs, Symptoms, Causes

How does medication help in treating mood disorders?

Medications for mood disorders can regulate the imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are at the root of mood disorders. 

They help stabilise an individual’s mood and reduce the severity and frequency of mood swings. Medication can also ease symptoms such as anxiety, and low moods.

What are some drawbacks of medication in treating mood disorders?

Mood disorder medications can have some side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, metabolic dysregulation, weight gain, muscle spasms, and sexual dysfunction.

The use of medication can also raise concerns about substance dependence. Some individuals may become excessively dependent on medication to manage their mood disorder symptoms.

However, it is important to know that medications are prescribed after careful diagnosis and evaluation by your mental health professional. You can share your ongoing medications, and allergies, or openly share any medical history that could add as a factor for side effects.

How does therapy help in treating mood disorders?

Mood disorders can have severe sudden episodes. Therapy can help you with coping strategies to anticipate and cope with mood disorder symptoms like stress reduction, problem-solving skills, and relaxation techniques. 

Mood disorders could often stem from underlying issues, unresolved conflicts, or past trauma. Therapy can help you identify such problems, recognise any negative thought patterns and triggers, and help work on them. Therapy also offers a safe space for you to express your emotions and feel heard.

Therapy and medication are often used in combination to achieve the best results in managing mood disorders. If you or your loved one is experiencing symptoms of any mood disorders or suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to consult a therapist or a psychiatrist.