Click on the questions below to read answers from leading experts in the field of mood disorders. 

Information provided in the “Ask the Doctors” column is not meant to take the place of individual consultation with a qualified health care provider. See your health care provider to discuss specific questions about your health, medication and treatment plan.

Question: There are many medications that people with mood disorders should avoid because of their potential to trigger an episode. Can you explain how to know which medications to avoid?

Question: How do the length of sleep time and regularity of the sleep schedule affect manic and depressive episodes? Can they be triggers?

Question: What is the difference between bipolar depression and unipolar depression?

Question: What is the relationship between depression and physical pain?

Question: What is a therapeutic alliance and how can I form one with my doctor?

Question: What can parents do to help reduce frequency of manic episodes in adolescents?

Question: If you’ve been on the same medication for many years, can it stop working?

Question: If a patient is diagnosed with ADHD along with bipolar illness, how is it best treated?

Question: What is the relationship between thyroid dysfunction and mood disorders?

Question: How can my doctor tell if I’m likely to have a recurrence of depression if I stop my treatment?

Question: I am approaching menopause and have noticed my moods becoming less stable. I’m being treated for my mood disorder, but how will menopause affect my illness? What can I do to keep my moods stable?

Question: How can I convince or help someone I care about to get treatment for what might be a mood disorder? 

Question: Will I be able to reduce or stop my medication as my symptoms become more manageable? If so, how would I do this?

Question: How do I know I’m getting the best treatment possible? What can I do if I feel my doctor isn’t taking enough interest in my mental health?

Question: Due to the recurring nature of depression, how should I go about making future plans?

Question: How is cognitive therapy used to treat depression and bipolar disorder, and is it helpful to be able to cry?

Question: What is the role of genetics in mood disorders? 

Question: How can a change in my environment affect my mental health?