Mood refers to a person's emotional state or prevailing emotional tone over a period of time. It is a subjective experience of emotions that can be influenced by various internal and external factors, such as thoughts, events, physical sensations, and interactions with others. Moods can be relatively stable and last for hours or even days, and they can also fluctuate throughout the day.
Moods are different from emotions, although the two terms are related. Emotions are more short-lived and intense reactions to specific events or situations, whereas moods are more generalized and enduring states that color a person's overall emotional experience.
When your therapist asks you to note your moods during the days, they are likely interested in understanding the patterns and fluctuations of your emotional experiences to gain insights into your overall well-being and mental state. Here are some examples of how you can describe your mood:
- Happy: Feeling joyous, content, or elated.
- Sad: Experiencing sorrow, disappointment, or a sense of loss.
- Angry: Feeling irritated, frustrated, or upset.
- Anxious: Experiencing worry, nervousness, or unease.
- Calm: Feeling relaxed and at ease.
- Energetic: Having high energy levels and enthusiasm.
- Tired: Feeling fatigued or lacking energy.
- Motivated: Feeling driven and goal-oriented.
- Hopeful: Having positive expectations about the future.
- Irritable: Feeling easily annoyed or bothered.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other emotions and mood states that people can experience. It's essential to be as specific and descriptive as possible when noting your moods. You can also note the intensity of the mood and any potential triggers or events that might have influenced it.
Keeping a mood journal can help you and your therapist identify patterns, potential triggers, and changes in your emotional experiences over time. This can be valuable information to guide therapeutic interventions and support your mental well-being. If you're unsure about how to describe your moods, don't worry; your therapist can assist you and provide guidance to help you become more aware of your emotional experiences.