Types of Childhood Mood Disorders

Childhood mood disorders are mental health conditions that affect a child's emotional state. When a child is experiencing a mood disorder, they likely have thoughts and feelings that are intense, persistent, and hard to manage. These go beyond mad moods or occasional temper tantrums.

Common Childhood Mood Disorders

• Major Depressive Disorder: A child may experience a persistent depressed, irritable mood lasting for two weeks or longer.

• Dysthymia: A child may experience a chronic, low-grade depression that lasts for at least two years.

• Bipolar Disorder: A child may experience temporary periods of elevated mood followed by periods of depressed or bad mood.

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder: This occurs before menstruation and may include irritability or depressive symptoms.

• Cyclothymic Disorder: A child may experience periods of elevated mood and periods of depressed or irritable mood that last for at least two years.

• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: A child may be unable to control their behavior and exhibit persistent irritability.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder: This often occurs during specific times of the year, including fall and winter, when the daylight hours change, at which time a child may experience depressive symptoms.

• Substance-Induced Mood Disorder: This can be triggered by medication, exposure to toxins, or substance use and lead to depressive symptoms.

Causes of a Childhood Mood Disorder

• Genetics
• Environmental factors
• Lifestyle choices
• Maternal use of tobacco products, alcohol, or illicit substances during pregnancy

Symptoms of a Childhood Mood Disorder

• Persistent sadness, irritability, or anger
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
• Low self-esteem
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Diagnosis of a Childhood Mood Disorder

• Physical exam
• Psychiatric evaluation
• Testing to rule out other conditions

Treatment for Childhood Mood Disorders

• Psychotherapy
• Medication
• Combination of psychotherapy and medication

Coping Strategies for Children with Mood Disorders

• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule
• Eating a healthy diet
• Exercising regularly
• Encouraging social interaction
• Teaching stress management tools

Note from Verywell

Early intervention can help prevent a worsening of the condition and improve your child’s symptoms.