Mood Disorders:
Does Your Child Have One?

Children can experience changes in their mood and behavior from time to time, just ask anyone who has ever interacted with a child. These changes are not always something to be concerned about, especially if you can easily identify a trigger for said changes. Any person, regardless of age will experience changes in mood. So if it’s so common, how would one know if it was something to be concerned about? 

These shifts in mood and behavior begin to become concerning when there are persistent, intense, alternating cycles of positive and negative moods without an apparent trigger. These changes could be indicative of a mood disorder. Mood disorders among children often present as a shift in mood, ranging from consistent low or depressed mood to cycling between low and high moods, often seen in Bipolar Disorder.

Prevalence of Mood Disorders in Children

Conditions such as depression and bipolar disorder can be common in children and adolescents. Any change in mood can shape your child’s emotional state. A mood condition is unlike the typical “bad moods” children occasionally feel: the intense thoughts and feelings are persistent and difficult to manage when they are dealing with a mood disorder. It is not something a child will simply grow out of in their next development stage. A mood disorder is a real medical condition.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) cites the statistics derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), suggesting that 3.7 percent of children aged 8 to 15 years old have a mood disorder. They are more prevalent among girls and older children. Recent studies revealed that as many as 15 to 18 percent of youngsters have experienced a mood episode before the age of 18.

It appears that many forms of mood disorders are very common before adulthood, and clinicians and researchers believe they are among the most underdiagnosed health concerns. Children with undiagnosed mood disorders are at risk for other health issues, such as disruptive behavior and substance abuse. Due to the different ways symptoms manifest in children and teens with mood disorders, it can be difficult for parents to determine whether it is time to seek intervention for their child.

Possible Causes of Mood Disorders

There are many factors suspected to cause mood conditions. They may have a genetic component: if depression or bipolar disorder runs in the family, children are at increased risk for developing it. They may also be caused by environmental factors, such as a major life changes, stressors or trauma.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Mood disorders can sometimes be difficult to diagnose in children since their brain is still in the process of development. Pediatricians and other health providers look for symptoms that can be considered red flags of psychiatric distress. Although symptoms may vary according to age and biological makeup, the early signs of a mood disorder can include the following:

  • Persistent and frequent mood changes, from sad to angry, depressed, irritable, and elevated moods
  • Acting out in multiple places, such as home and school
  • Lack of interest in or motivation toward enjoyable activities
  • Significant change in sleeping or eating patterns
  • Frequent complaints of physical pain, such as headaches, dizziness, or stomachaches
  • Lethargy
  • Dramatic drop in school performance
  • Feeling of worthlessness or low self-esteem
  • High level of energy with racing thoughts or rapid speed
  • Difficulty maintaining relationships
  • Engaging in rebellious or risky behavior
  • Self-harming tendencies, which may require immediate intervention

Recognizing these warning signs can be the first step in seeking treatment and preventing future episodes.

Getting Help for Mood Disorders

If you suspect your child is showing the symptoms of a mood disorder it can be beneficial to have a full assessment by a qualified and trained professional. Mood disorders are treatable, especially with early intervention. Proper treatment can help reduce the severity of symptoms, improving the quality of your child’s life and relationships with others.

Mood disorders cannot typically be outgrown. It takes intervention and support from a professional who can provide an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment to effectively manage the disorder. At Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC, there are independently contracted counselors who specialize in diagnosing and treating a full range of mood conditions in children. They can offer a personalized plan for your child based on the most effective therapeutic approaches. Call today to request an appointment.

Related Articles: