Mood Disorders

Mood disorders may be challenging and frustrating if you don’t have the right treatment approach. At Oasis Healing Arts, experienced advanced practice Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist Linda Hilliker, MS, CNS, RXN, offers compassionate patient-centered care for mood disorders to ensure her patients get the best personalized care. Flexible scheduling is available, and you can choose from telehealth and in-person care in the Broomfield, Colorado, office. Call the office or book your appointment through online scheduling now.

What are mood disorders?

Mood disorders negatively affect your emotional state and often prevent you from functioning normally. There are many types of mood disorders, including:

• Major depressive disorder
• Anxiety Disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
• Seasonal affective disorder
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
• Substance-induced mood disorder
  

More than 20% of adults have a mood disorder during their lifetime. 

What are the signs of a mood disorder? 

Mood disorders vary with the specific condition and individual, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Sadness
• Depression that alternates with euphoria
• Anxiety
• Feeling discouraged or hopeless
• Feelings of guilt
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Mood swings that feel out of your control
• Irritability 
• Lack of pleasure in activities usually enjoyed
• Poor concentration 
• Racing thoughts 
• Extreme changes in energy levels
• Appetite or weight changes
• Sleep disturbance 
• Suicidal ideation

Symptoms may occur only occasionally and then build up until they are more severe and disrupting your life. Or, you might experience symptoms in episodes that last a few weeks but feel normal between those times. 

How are mood disorders diagnosed?

At Oasis Healing Arts, Linda performs a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose mood disorders. She carefully reviews your symptoms, medical history, and general health to fully understand your needs and situation. 

Linda may use symptom rating scales to evaluate and track your symptoms and progress over time. 

Many people with mood disorders have co-occurring conditions, including physical conditions like hypothyroidism, anemia, Vitamin D deficiency or substance use disorders. Linda can sort out what symptoms may have a medical cause and make recommendations accordingly to create the optimal treatment plan for all your needs. This may include referral to your primary care medical doctor, and collaborating with your other treatment providers for integrated care.

How are mood disorders treated?

At Oasis Healing Arts, Linda takes an integrative approach in which she helps you address the root cause of your mood disorder. Usually, people feel better faster, and with lasting results, with both therapy and medication management. She may recommend seeing a Psychotherapist or Counsellor, for added support and more rapid and effective treatment response.

With more than three decades of experience in matching patients with the medications that work best, Linda can help you find symptom relief while minimizing or avoiding side effects. 

Appointments are available both in the office and through convenient telehealth sessions. 

If you’re having trouble with symptoms like sadness or dramatic mood changes, call Oasis Healing Arts to set up your evaluation by phone or through the online scheduling link today.