Mood disorders in children and teenagers are more common than you might think. As a parent or caregiver, it can be difficult to know when your child is experiencing more than just typical mood swings. That’s where we come in.
At Decade2Connect, our team of experienced therapists specializes in working with children and teenagers who are struggling with mood disorders. We understand that every child is unique, and we work closely with families to create customized treatment plans that meet their specific needs.
Mood disorders, also known as affective disorders, refer to a group of conditions that cause emotional and psychological disturbances in an individual’s daily life. These mental health issues can have a profound effect on children and young adults, which is why it is important to be aware of the types of mood disorders and their common signs so they can be identified early.
The most common types of mood disorders include:
Dysthymia (persistent depressive disorder)
Cyclothymia (mild bipolar disorder)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Mood disorders can be difficult to identify in children and teens. They can be easily mistaken for typical teenage behavior, but in reality, mood disorders can have a significant impact on a young person’s life.
Common signs of mood disorders in children and young adults are:
Persistent sadness or low self-esteem
Feeling overwhelmed by stress or life events
Extreme emotions such as anger or irritability
Difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks at hand
Changes in sleeping patterns (sleeping too much or too little)
Withdrawal from family and friends
Increased drug use or reckless behavior
Difficulty controlling impulses
Significant weight gain or loss without trying
Thoughts of death or suicide or attempts at suicide
It is important to note that these symptoms may not be present all at once nor manifest themselves in the same way for each individual. Additionally, you should keep in mind that mood disorders can often co-occur with other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders and substance abuse issues.
We offer a range of treatment options for children and teens with mood disorders. Our evidence-based approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A type of talk therapy that helps children and teenagers identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their mood disorder.
Family Therapy: A form of therapy that involves the entire family in the treatment process, helping to improve communication and strengthen relationships.
Play Therapy: A form of therapy that uses play to help children express and process their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Contact us today to learn more about our services for children and teenagers with mood disorders. We are here to support you and your family on the journey to healing and recovery.
