Therapy for mood disorders
If you experience intense mood shifts that feel difficult to control, periods of high energy followed by lows, or emotional patterns that disrupt your life, you're not alone. Mood disorders affect many Canadians, and getting the right support can make a profound difference. Working with a therapist who specializes in mood disorders can help you understand these patterns, develop strategies for stability, and build a life where your moods don't control you. Let's explore what mood disorders look like, how therapy helps, and connect you with therapists who understand these challenges.
What are mood disorders?
Common signs and symptoms
Mood disorders involve significant changes in your emotional state that go beyond normal ups and downs. You might experience periods of elevated mood where you feel euphoric, energized, or irritable, needing less sleep and taking on multiple projects. These can alternate with periods of depression where energy plummets, motivation disappears, and everything feels heavy. Some people experience rapid shifts between these states, while others have longer periods of stability between episodes.
During high periods, you might talk faster, have racing thoughts, engage in risky behaviours, or feel invincible. During low periods, you might struggle with the same symptoms as depression: fatigue, loss of interest, difficulty concentrating, or feelings of hopelessness. The unpredictability of these shifts can feel exhausting and frightening. You might wonder which version of yourself will show up tomorrow, making it hard to plan your life or maintain relationships.
Types of mood disorders
Mood disorders encompass several conditions. Bipolar I disorder involves distinct episodes of mania (elevated mood lasting at least a week) and often depression. Bipolar II involves hypomanic episodes (less severe than mania) and depressive episodes. Cyclothymic disorder involves chronic mood fluctuations that don't meet the full criteria for bipolar disorder but still significantly impact functioning.
Some people experience mixed episodes where symptoms of both high and low moods occur simultaneously. Others have rapid cycling, with four or more mood episodes per year. Each person's pattern is unique, which is why personalized assessment and treatment matter so much. Understanding your specific pattern is the first step toward managing it effectively.
Statistics in Canada
Data from Statistics Canada.Statistics Canada report.
The real impact of mood disorders
Relationships and social life
Mood disorders place real strain on relationships. During elevated periods, you may act impulsively, say things you regret, or commit to plans you cannot sustain. During low periods, you may withdraw completely, leaving loved ones unsure of how to reach you. The rapid shifts can confuse or upset friends and family, creating distance even in strong relationships. You may feel guilty about how your mood affects others, which only adds to the stress.
Work or school performance
Fluctuating mood makes steady performance difficult. In manic or hypomanic states, you may take on too much or make decisions that cause problems later. In depressive states, even basic tasks can feel impossible. The cycle of high productivity followed by sudden struggle can confuse employers or instructors. Missed deadlines, absences, and conflicts are common and can affect career growth or academic progress.
How therapy helps with mood disorders
Overview of why professional support matters
Mood disorders are complex conditions that benefit enormously from specialized care. While medication often plays an important role in stabilizing mood, therapy is equally crucial. A therapist helps you recognize early warning signs of mood episodes, develop coping strategies, establish routines that support stability, and work through the impact mood episodes have had on your life. Therapy provides skills and support that medication alone cannot offer, helping you build a life of greater predictability and control.
What happens in therapy
Therapy for mood disorders is structured and skills-focused. Your therapist will help you understand your unique mood patterns, identify triggers and early warning signs, and develop specific strategies for managing symptoms. You'll work on building stability through routines, sleep hygiene, stress management, and relationship skills.
Sessions might involve tracking your moods to identify patterns, learning to distinguish normal mood variations from episode warning signs, practicing emotional regulation skills, addressing thoughts and behaviours that destabilize mood, and developing a crisis plan for managing severe episodes. Your therapist coordinates with your psychiatrist or doctor if you're taking medication, ensuring all aspects of your care work together.
Evidence based approaches that work
Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy
Recent trials show that interpersonal and social rhythm therapy supports mood stability and functioning in people living with mood disorders. It focuses on stabilising daily routines such as sleep, meals, activity, and social contact, while also addressing relationship stress that can affect mood. By making your days more predictable, you reduce mood swings and the chance of episodes developing.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for mood disorders
Cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the most researched treatments for depression and other mood disorders.Meta analyses show that CBT and related approaches lower the risk of depressive relapse and help people stay well for longer after treatment. In therapy you learn to spot patterns in thoughts and behaviour that pull your mood down, respond differently to them, and build habits that support a more stable emotional baseline.
Dialectical behaviour therapy skills
Dialectical behaviour therapy was developed for intense emotions and it is increasingly used when mood disorders come with strong reactivity or impulsive behaviour.A recent systematic review found that DBT based interventions improve emotion regulation and reduce symptom severity in people with bipolar and related mood difficulties. In practice you learn mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and relationship skills that help you ride out emotional waves without making things worse.
Family focused and partner based therapy
Mood disorders affect the people around you and support makes a real difference.Family psychoeducation in the early stages of mood and psychotic disorders has been shown to reduce relapse by helping families recognise early warning signs and respond in supportive ways. This kind of therapy builds shared language, improves communication, and gives your support system tools to help you manage stress, which can ease conflict at home and protect your recovery.
What to expect from therapy for mood disorders
First session: what happens
Your first session involves a comprehensive assessment of your mood patterns. Your therapist will ask detailed questions about your mood episodes: how long they last, what they feel like, what triggers them, and how they affect your functioning. They'll also ask about your sleep patterns, substance use, medications, family history, and current stressors.
This information helps them understand your specific type of mood disorder and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. If you haven't been formally diagnosed, your therapist may recommend a psychiatric assessment. Be as honest as possible about your symptoms, including any risky behaviours or substance use. This isn't about judgment; it's about getting you the right help.
Timeline: when people typically see progress
Progress with mood disorders often takes longer than with other conditions because you're building stability over time. In the first few months, you'll focus on learning skills, establishing routines, and identifying your patterns. Many people notice they're catching warning signs earlier and preventing some episodes within 3 to 6 months.
Longer term therapy (often 6 to 12 months or more) helps you maintain stability, adjust to medication changes, work through difficult periods, and address the impact past episodes have had on your life. Mood disorders are chronic conditions, so ongoing or intermittent therapy is often beneficial even after initial stabilization.
Between sessions: homework and practice
Managing a mood disorder requires daily attention. You'll likely be asked to track your moods, sleep, and activities; maintain regular sleep and wake times; practice skills learned in session; and notice early warning signs. This self-monitoring is crucial. It helps you and your therapist identify patterns and intervene before episodes become severe. While it requires commitment, most people find that this structure actually reduces anxiety about their moods because they feel more in control.
Measuring success: what improvement looks like
Success doesn't mean never having mood changes. It means episodes become less frequent, less severe, and shorter. You'll catch warning signs earlier and use skills to prevent escalation. You'll develop routines that support stability and relationships that can weather difficult periods. Life becomes more predictable. You'll have confidence that even when mood episodes occur, you have tools to manage them. You'll be able to pursue goals, maintain relationships, and build the life you want despite having a mood disorder.
Find a therapist who specializes in mood disorders
Choosing the right therapist matters. Each province in Canada has its own regulations, which is why working with a recognized professional can make a real difference in your care. Stellocare takes the uncertainty out of the process by listing only verified therapists you can trust.
The right therapist for you
No therapists found with these specialties in Ontario.
Try selecting a different province.Additional resources for managing mood disorders
Community services
Peer support for mood disorders (Ontario)
Mood Disorders Association of Ontariooffers peer support groups, telephone warm-lines, family programmes and online learning tailored to people living with mood disorders.
National advocacy and education
Mood Disorders Society of Canadaserves Canadians with mood disorders and their families by providing information, support links and advocacy.
Crisis support 24/7
If you’re in crisis or thinking about suicide: Call or text 9-8-8, the national Suicide Crisis Helpline. For urgent mental health care in Toronto: visit theCAMH Emergency Services.
Young adult mental-health hub
Stella’s Place (Toronto) provides free counselling, psychiatry, peer support and employment help for ages 18-29 experiencing mood or related mental health challenges.
Indigenous-led crisis line
TheGovernment of Canada mental health support page lists theHope for Wellness Help Line (1-855-242-3310) offering immediate, culturally competent support to First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Self-help techniques
Routine and Rhythm
- Sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake at the same time every day, even weekends. This is crucial for mood stability. Use alarms and avoid napping.
- Meal timing: Eat at regular times. Skipping meals or erratic eating can destabilize mood.
- Social rhythm: Try to maintain consistent timing for social activities and daily tasks. Predictability helps your biological rhythms stay regulated.
Mood Monitoring
- Daily tracking: Use a mood chart or app to track your mood, sleep, energy, and any warning signs. This helps you spot patterns and catch episodes early.
- Know your warning signs: Learn what happens for you before episodes start. Racing thoughts? Less sleep? More spending? Catching these early allows for intervention.
- Share patterns with supports: Let trusted people know your warning signs so they can help you recognize when you might need extra support.
Managing Elevated Moods
- Slow down: When you notice increased energy or racing thoughts, deliberately slow your pace. Take breaks. Avoid making major decisions.
- Reduce stimulation: Limit caffeine, avoid loud environments, reduce screen time. Create calm.
- Reality check: Before acting on ideas or impulses, run them by someone you trust. Are they realistic? Can they wait?
- Financial safeguards: Consider giving a trusted person control of credit cards during elevated periods to prevent impulsive spending.
Managing Low Moods
- Maintain routine: Even when it's hard, try to keep your sleep and meal schedule. Structure supports stability.
- Small activities: Do one small thing daily, even if it's just a short walk or shower. Action can shift mood.
- Challenge negative thoughts: Depression makes everything look hopeless. Remind yourself this is an episode, not permanent reality.
- Reach out: Contact your therapist, support person, or crisis line if low mood becomes severe or you have thoughts of self-harm.
Lifestyle Factors
- Avoid alcohol and substances: These destabilize mood and can trigger episodes. They also interfere with medication effectiveness.
- Manage stress: Identify your stressors and develop coping strategies. High stress can trigger episodes.
- Take medication consistently: If prescribed medication, take it exactly as directed. Never stop or change doses without consulting your doctor.
- Communicate with your healthcare team: Keep your therapist and psychiatrist informed about what's working and what isn't.
Mood tracking apps: Daylio, or Bearable. These help you identify patterns and warning signs. Some integrate with medication reminders and sleep tracking.
Common questions about therapy for mood disorders
Do I need medication if I'm doing therapy?
For most mood disorders, especially bipolar disorder, medication is an essential part of treatment. Mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or other medications help regulate brain chemistry that therapy alone cannot address. Think of it this way: medication stabilizes your mood enough that therapy skills can work. Most people need both for optimal management. Always work with a psychiatrist for medication decisions.
How long will I need therapy?
Because mood disorders are chronic conditions, many people benefit from ongoing or intermittent therapy over years. Initial intensive therapy might last 6 to 12 months, then you might continue with monthly maintenance sessions or return to therapy during stressful periods. This doesn't mean you're not improving; it means you're wisely managing a chronic condition, similar to managing diabetes or other health conditions.
What if I feel fine and don't think I need treatment?
Feeling good can sometimes be a symptom of hypomania or mania rather than true wellness. This is tricky because elevated moods often feel better than depression, making it tempting to stop treatment. However, these elevated states often precede crashes or lead to risky decisions. Your therapist can help you distinguish healthy good moods from warning signs of an episode.
Can therapy prevent mood episodes completely?
Therapy significantly reduces the frequency and severity of episodes, but it may not prevent them entirely. The goal is to help you achieve the longest periods of stability possible, catch episodes early when they do occur, and minimize their impact on your life. Many people go years between episodes with proper treatment.
Should my family be involved in my therapy?
Family involvement can be very helpful. Loved ones can learn to recognize warning signs, understand your condition better, and provide appropriate support. Many therapists offer family sessions or can recommend family education programs. However, you decide who to involve and when. Your privacy and comfort matter.
What about therapy during a severe episode?
During severe manic or depressive episodes, you may need more intensive care than weekly therapy provides. This might include more frequent sessions, crisis intervention, medication adjustments, or even brief hospitalization. Your therapist will help coordinate this higher level of care when needed and continue working with you as you stabilize.
Related concerns
References
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). (2024). Bipolar Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/bipolar-disorder
- Frank, E., Kupfer, D. J., Thase, M. E., Mallinger, A. G., Swartz, H. A., Fagiolini, A. M., ... & Monk, T. (2005). Two-year outcomes for interpersonal and social rhythm therapy in individuals with bipolar I disorder. Archives of General Psychiatry, 62(9), 996-1004. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16143731/
- Lam, D. H., Watkins, E. R., Hayward, P., Bright, J., Wright, K., Kerr, N., ... & Sham, P. (2003). A randomized controlled study of cognitive therapy for relapse prevention for bipolar affective disorder: outcome of the first year. Archives of General Psychiatry, 60(2), 145-152.
- Miklowitz, D. J., George, E. L., Richards, J. A., Simoneau, T. L., & Suddath, R. L. (2003). A randomized study of family-focused psychoeducation and pharmacotherapy in the outpatient management of bipolar disorder. Archives of General Psychiatry, 60(9), 904-912.
- Van Dijk, S., Jeffrey, J., & Katz, M. R. (2013). A randomized, controlled, pilot study of dialectical behavior therapy skills in a psychoeducational group for individuals with bipolar disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 145(3), 386-393.
- Mood Disorders Association of Ontario. (2024). Programs and Services. Retrieved from https://www.mdao.ca/
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). (2024). Emergency Services. Retrieved from https://www.camh.ca/en/your-care/programs-and-services/emergency-department
- Bipolar Caregivers. (2024). Resources and Support. Retrieved from https://bipolarcaregivers.org/
- Geddes, J. R., & Miklowitz, D. J. (2013). Treatment of bipolar disorder. The Lancet, 381(9878), 1672-1682.
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Chelsea Jackson
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Esha Jain
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)
Amelie Rossignol
Counselling Therapist (AB)
Emily Hiram
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Shannon Gallagher
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Katelyn Beveridge
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)
Veronica Kozak
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)
Christine Chambers
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Florence Wong
Registered Social Worker (BC)
Kat Sevsek
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)
Emily Duggan
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Natasha Elliott
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Rania Hannawayya
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Renée Dangerfield-Allen
Registered Social Worker (AB)
Myroslava Stadnyk
Registered Psychotherapist (ON)
Marla Soubhie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)
Jason Chang
Canadian Certified Counsellor
Rachel Tolkin
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) (ON)