Mood Disorders
Introduction to Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are conditions that strongly affect mood over time. In children and teens, this can look like long periods of sadness, irritability, loss of interest, or cycles of high and low energy. Common types include major depression, persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia), bipolar disorders, disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), and—among menstruating teens—premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
These conditions can impact school, friends, sleep, and family life. The good news: they are treatable. An early evaluation helps us learn what’s going on and build a plan that fits your child and family.
Safety note:
If your child talks about suicide or has a plan to harm themselves or others, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. In the U.S., you can also call or text 988.
Causes and Risk Factors
Mood disorders usually come from a mix of factors:
- Biology/brain chemistry: areas that regulate emotion and stress.
- Genetics: family history raises risk.
- Stress and environment: loss, conflict, bullying, trauma, or ongoing stress can trigger or worsen symptoms.
- Medical or hormonal factors: chronic illness, thyroid problems, some medicines/substances, and menstrual-cycle changes (PMDD).
These conditions are common in youth and can disrupt school and friendships. If mood changes last for weeks or keep your child from daily life, it’s time to seek care.
Treatment and Management
Care at Texas Pediatric Mental Health Services starts with a full evaluation. We review symptoms, medical history, and daily functioning at home and school. With your consent, we coordinate with your pediatrician and teachers.
What helps
- Therapy: CBT, DBT skills, and family-focused sessions teach coping, problem-solving, and emotion regulation.
- Medication (when appropriate): SSRIs/SNRIs for depression; mood stabilizers or atypical antipsychotics for bipolar symptoms. We start low, monitor closely, and review often.
- School supports: 504/IEP plans, workload adjustments, and regular check-ins.
- Home routines: steady sleep, activity, and stress-reduction habits.
We set clear goals, track progress, and adjust the plan together.