Mood Disorders

Everyone feels sad, excited or angry sometimes. When kids feel too good, too mad, or too sad, they might have a mood disorder. A mood disorder is an illness of the brain. The feelings, thoughts and behaviors of mood disorders can cause problems in a kid’s life. What causes mood disorders in children is up for debate. There are chemicals in the brain that are responsible for positive moods. Mood disorders may be caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain, on its own or along with environmental factors, such as unexpected life events and/or chronic stress.

Book Appointment

Symptoms Of Mood Disorders

• Difficulty achieving in school
• Constant anger
• Rebellious behaviors
• Trouble with family
• Difficulty with friends and peers
• Persistent feelings of sadness
• Feeling hopeless or helpless
• Having low self-esteem
• Feeling inadequate
• Excessive guilt
• Loss of interest in usual activities or activities once enjoyed
• Difficulty with relationships

• Sleep disturbances (for example, insomnia, or hypersomnia)
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Decreased energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• A decrease in the ability to make decisions
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts
• Frequent physical complaints (for example, headache, stomachache, or fatigue)
• Running away or threats of running away from home
• Hypersensitivity to failure or rejection
• Irritability, hostility, aggression

"Stop hating yourself for everything your not. Start loving yourself for everything you are"

- Unknown

Helpful Links For Mood Disorders

• Child and Adolescent Bipolar Foundation - The Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation educates families, professionals, and the public about pediatric bipolar disorder; connects families with resources and support.
  
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance - DBSA is the nation’s leading patient-directed organization focusing on depression and bipolar disorder, primarily for adults and their families.
  
• BP Children - Offers mood charts, posters, a newsletter, and excellent books such as Intense Minds, Brandon and the Bipolar Bear (also available in a DVD storytelling format), Anger Mountain, and My Roller Coaster Feelings Book and Work Book

Resources

We provide great information and resources to help meet your needs.

What To Expect

Great for first time patients and parents.

Printable Forms

Save time by filling out forms in advance

Common Questions

Answers to question or concerns you may have.