ABSTRACT
Mood disorders can most accurately be thought of as existing on a spectrum. On one end of the spectrum are a variety of depressive disorders, and on the other end are a variety of bipolar disorders. This chapter focuses on both types of mood disorders and diagnosis and treatment options. There is a high rate of comorbidity between bipolar disorder and behavioral disorders. Some debate remains in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry as to the identification of juveniles with bipolar disorder. Children with bipolar depression tend to have more anger, dysphoria, and conduct problems. A psychiatric evaluation should also include a careful assessment of other comorbid conditions. Any teen presenting with depressive symptoms should be carefully assessed for past episodes of grandiosity or mania. Psychotherapy is considered an important component of treatment for depression. There are different psychotherapy interventions.
