This chapter gives an overview of anxiety and mood disorders. Anxiety and
mood disorders are arguably the most common mental illness worldwide. The purpose
of this chapter is to introduce the reader to the pathophysiology, aetiology, and
epidemiology of these conditions so the reader can develop an in-depth understanding
of how to work with people with anxiety and mood disorders. The occupational therapy
perspective is woven in throughout this chapter.
Keywords: Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Generalized anxiety disorder, Manic episode, Mood disorders, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Occupational therapy, Panic disorder, Phobia, Post-traumatic stress disorder.
