What is the main characteristic of mood disorders?

The main characteristic of mood disorders is a disturbance of mood. This refers to significant changes in emotional state, such as persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or elation that can greatly impact a person's daily functioning. Individuals suffering from mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder, experience prolonged periods where their mood is abnormally low or high, which can affect how they think, feel, and behave.

Although disturbances of sleep, energy, and behavior can accompany mood disorders, they are considered secondary symptoms that arise as a result of the primary mood disturbance. For instance, a person with depression may experience insomnia or fatigue, but these are manifestations of their underlying mood issue rather than defining characteristics of the disorder itself. Understanding mood as the central feature helps healthcare providers tailor treatment and support to effectively address the root of the individual's difficulties.