Mood Disorders vs. Personality Disorders: Defining The Differences
Mental health is being discussed more and more in everyday conversations. With these important conversations, terms like “mood disorders” and “personality disorders” are frequently mentioned and sometimes used interchangeably. However, these two terms represent different types of conditions, and understanding these differences is important for the diagnosis process and treatment options. Let’s break down the differences and how these disorders can impact the life of an individual.
Mood Disorders Defined & Symptoms
Mood disorders are characterized by disturbances in an individual’s emotional state or mood. Someone with these disorders can have severe mood swings, periods of prolonged sadness (depression), or periods of abnormally elevated moods and energy levels (mania). These disorders can impact one’s well-being and day-to-day life.
Mood disorder episodes are often accompanied by intense sadness, changes in appetite (increased or decreased), fatigue, feelings of hopelessness, and/or extreme mood swings. Common mood disorders include Major Depressive Disorder or MDD (loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and feelings of worthlessness), Bipolar Disorder (mood swings from mania to depression), and Dysthymia (persistent low-grade depression for many years).
Personality Disorders Defined & Symptoms
Personality disorders are characterized by a recurring pattern of behavior and cognition that is different from what is culturally expected. These behaviors can be challenging to modify and may lead to distress and difficulties in daily life. Those struggling with a personality disorder may experience difficulty maintaining stable relationships, exhibit a lack of remorse or empathy, have trouble practicing impulse control, appear overly sensitive to criticism, or struggle with a fear of abandonment.
Common personality disorders include Borderline Personality Disorder or BPD (characterized by unstable relationships, intense emotions, and impulsiveness), Antisocial Personality Disorder or ASPD (characterized by disregard for others, impulsiveness, lack of remorse, and deceitfulness), and Narcissistic Personality Disorder or NPD (characterized by a need for approval, apparent lack of empathy, and sensitivity to criticism).
Onset, Causes, and Duration
The onset of mood and personality disorders varies depending on the disorder. Onset for mood disorders can occur at any point in life and is often triggered by stressful life events or chemical imbalances in the brain. Episodes can be an isolated event or can be recurrent. Oftentimes, a mood disorder can be linked to numerous factors, including genetic, biological, psychological, or environmental, or a combination of multiple factors. Changes in serotonin and dopamine levels are common in mood disorders.
Personality disorders, on the other hand, typically develop in adolescence or early adulthood, although they may remain undiagnosed or incorrectly diagnosed well into adulthood. These disorders often impact many areas of an individual’s life and may be rooted in early life experiences such as abuse, neglect, or trauma. Genetic factors may contribute to the development of personality disorders, which are often lifelong conditions.
Treatment and Prognosis
Both mood and personality disorders can be treated with a combination of therapy and medication, but every individual is different and should seek the guidance of a licensed mental health professional.
Mood disorders are commonly treated with medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) known commonly as antidepressants and mood stabilizers. Talk therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is also helpful in the treatment of mood disorders. Lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress management techniques may also help individuals struggling with mood disorders.
Personality disorders can be a little more challenging to treat, but there are many options to help individuals who are struggling. Most individuals are treated with therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Psychiatric medication may be used in conjunction with therapy to help manage common symptoms of personality disorders such as anxiety, but counseling is often preferred as the primary treatment.
Individuals with mood and/or personality disorders can often go on to live healthy lives. Many people can achieve significant improvement and learn to manage their symptoms with the proper treatment. While recurrent episodes are not uncommon, some symptoms may decrease with age. It is important to find a trusted mental health professional to help tailor a treatment plan that works for each individual.
Mood and personality disorders can overlap, but understanding the differences between the two can help in receiving proper diagnosis and treatment. Both conditions need the help and support of a mental health professional to manage but can be treated with the proper treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling, know that you are not alone and there are resources out there to help you take the necessary steps towards treatment and happiness.
