Abstract
With concerns still on the level of public awareness and knowledge of mental health, people who are diagnosed with mental health disorders are still having difficulties in receiving appropriate help. There is a need for better understanding and promoting awareness of what people experiencing such challenges are going through and identifying their needs. The study encompasses the lived experiences of individuals with mood disorders, how their diagnosis has changed their lifestyle, their interaction with others, the difficulties they experience, and how they are coping with their condition upon being aware of it. This study uses a qualitative research design and an interpretative phenomenological approach. The study conducted interviews to learn the lived experiences of nine (9) participants, where they could share their experience with changes and how they cope with the said changes. Results found that having a good support system and developing healthy coping mechanisms assist in managing the negative situations that people with mood disorders experience. Through the persistence of being discriminated against, stigmatized, and facing difficulties because of the limitations that accompany the diagnosis. Additionally, maintaining wellness, such as regularly monitoring their medication and lifestyle, can assist in regulating the symptoms and episodes of people with mood disorders.
