Mood Disorder Treatment in Dartmouth, MA

What Are Mood Disorders?

Mood disorders are mental health conditions characterized by persistent, disruptive disturbances in emotional state that interfere with daily life. Unlike normal emotional fluctuations, mood disorders involve extreme or prolonged mood states requiring professional treatment. Getting the diagnosis right matters enormously — different mood disorders require very different treatment approaches.

Mood Disorders We Treat

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) — persistent depressed mood or loss of interest lasting at least two weeks with significant daily impact.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) — chronic lower-grade depression lasting two or more years. Often unrecognized because it becomes the patient's "baseline."

Bipolar I and II Disorder — mood disorders involving manic/hypomanic and depressive episodes. See our dedicated bipolar disorder page.

Cyclothymic Disorder — recurring mild hypomanic and depressive symptoms over at least two years.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) — severe mood symptoms tied to the menstrual cycle. See our PMDD page.

Postpartum Depression — see our postpartum depression page.

Mood disorders due to medical conditions — including thyroid disorders, neurological conditions, and chronic illness.

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Prescribing an antidepressant alone to someone with undiagnosed bipolar disorder can trigger a manic episode. Our PMHNPs conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations — reviewing full mood history, family history, and prior treatment responses — before developing any treatment plan.

Treatment

Treatment varies by diagnosis. Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) are first-line for unipolar depression. Mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics are the foundation of bipolar treatment. GeneSight testing can reduce trial-and-error by identifying which medications your genetics suggest will be most effective.

Serving Dartmouth and Surrounding Areas

DLH Consulting is located at 516 Hawthorn St., Suite 2 & 4, Dartmouth, MA 02747, serving the South Coast and beyond.