Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder: Symptoms

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a childhood condition characterized by extreme and frequent temper outbursts that can lead to significant impairments in a child's life. DMDD was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) in 2013 as a separate disorder from bipolar disorder to address concerns about potential over-diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder in children.

Symptoms of DMDD:

• Severe and recurrent temper outbursts: May involve yelling, pushing, hitting, and/or property destruction.
• Occurring three or more times a week: Outbursts may vary in frequency, but the average should be three or more per week.
• Outbursts disproportionate to the situation: Excessive and intense reactions to minor triggers.
• Inappropriate for the child's age level: Tantrums that are typical of younger children in older children.
• Irritable and angry moods between tantrums: Persistent anger and irritability most of the time, noticeable by others.
• Occurring in multiple settings: Tantrums are not limited to a single setting, such as home or school.
• Symptoms present for at least 12 months: With no more than three consecutive months without meeting the criteria.

Other possible symptoms:

• Difficulty controlling anger
• Frequent arguments with adults or peers
• Refusal to comply with requests or rules
• Deliberately annoying or upsetting others
• Blaming others for their mistakes or misbehavior
• Being touchy or easily annoyed
• Having difficulty getting along with others
• Poor self-esteem
• Thoughts of hurting oneself or others

When to Seek Help:

If your child is experiencing severe and recurrent temper outbursts that are causing problems in their life, it is important to seek professional help. DMDD can be a serious condition, but it can be effectively managed with treatment.

Treatment:

Treatment for DMDD typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. Therapy can help children learn to manage their anger and develop coping mechanisms. Medication may be helpful in reducing the severity and frequency of temper outbursts.

Coping Strategies:

If your child has DMDD, there are a number of things you can do to help them cope with their symptoms:

• Set clear limits and boundaries. Children with DMDD need to know what is expected of them and what the consequences will be if they misbehave.
• Be consistent with your discipline. Children with DMDD need to know that they will be punished consistently for misbehavior.
• Praise your child for good behavior. Positive reinforcement can help children with DMDD learn what behaviors are acceptable.
• Help your child learn to manage their anger. Teach your child relaxation techniques and problem-solving skills.
• Encourage your child to get regular exercise. Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve mood.
• Talk to your child about their feelings. Let your child know that it is okay to feel angry and that you are there to help them.

Conclusion:

DMDD can be a challenging condition, but it is important to remember that it is treatable. With the right treatment and support, children with DMDD can learn to manage their symptoms and live happy, productive lives.