As the social stigma associated with mental health disorders starts to fade away and more people acknowledge and accept their struggles, the diagnosis and treatment of these issues have improved. However, it’s not just adults who are struggling with their mental health.

Experts are now finding more mood disorders in children, as well. While the exact cause of these disorders in our younger generations can vary, a handful of conditions seem more prevalent in today’s youths. This article will outline what those common ones are and the signs your child might be struggling with them.

What mood disorders are common in children?

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.

This is a relatively newly defined diagnosis that occurs more commonly in boys than girls. It was developed to better diagnose children who showed signs of bipolar disorder, but didn’t meet the full criteria for it. It’s characterized by chronic and severe irritability with frequent angry outbursts that don’t align with a given situation. While tantrums are not necessarily a sign of a mood disorder in children, those with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder are persistently angry, even in between the outbursts.

Bipolar disorder.

Children with bipolar disorder regularly swing from extreme highs to just as extreme lows, essentially going through a cycle that swings between mania and depression. During a manic episode, he or she may talk more than usual and at a faster and louder rate, and they can struggle to stay on topic in a conversation. During a depressive state, you might notice irritability, constant sadness, and increased crying.

Major depressive disorder.

More commonly known as depression, major depressive disorder can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Children with depression experience chronic feelings of sadness, guilt, or worthlessness and tend to be irritable, bored with life, and struggling to find enjoyment in activities they once enjoyed. Weight loss or gain, too much or too little sleep, and contemplating death are other indicators that your child may be struggling with depression.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

This is a common mood disorder in children that exclusively affects females. After they go through puberty, young girls can start to experience more severe and debilitating forms of premenstrual syndrome. Before the menstrual cycle begins, teenage girls can experience extreme moodiness, changes in appetite, and a sense of overwhelming feelings. There are other symptoms that aren’t purely psychological, as well. The normal symptoms of bloating, cramping, headaches, and breast tenderness are also present.

Health or substance-induced mood disorder.

Sometimes, a common mood disorder in children can be caused by outside factors. Certain health conditions, like traumatic physical injuries or severe infections, can trigger a mood disorder in a child. Similarly, substance use can also cause a mood disorder. If a child takes medications, is exposed to toxic substances, or uses certain drugs, it can alter their mood and create a substance-induced mood disorder. The treatment options for these types of mood disorders vary by their situation and exact cause.

Do you think your child is struggling with their mental health?

Reach out to the team of experts at Synchronous Mental Health. We’re committed to helping patients cope with mental health issues through accurate assessments, psychotherapeutic resources, and skilled medication management. We’ll work with you and your child to better understand what they may be struggling with and create a plan that combines medications and therapy to help treat it.

Asking for support with these matters is the courageous first step towards a better place. You can learn more about the services we offer, or contact us online to learn more about our treatment options.