6 Signs Your Adolescent May Have a Mood Disorder

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"A mood disorder is a mental or emotional disorder that causes an individual’s mood to change dramatically" (NAMI, 2018). Common mood disorders include depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. Mood disorders are common in both adults and adolescents; however, diagnosing mood disorders in adolescents can be more challenging because adolescents sometimes aren't sure of how they feel.

Mood disorders can be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain or certain environmental factors. For instance, if your adolescent just went through a significant amount of change, they may feel an abundance of stress, which can lead to disruptions in mood.

Adolescents of all ages and economic backgrounds can be affected by mood disorders. Your adolescent may be suffering from a mood disorder if:

• They are giving up activities or relationships.
• They have no motivation or poor focus.
• They have a sudden change in appetite, weight or sleep.
• They often feel anxious or worried.
• They are acting out either at home or at school.

Having a mood disorder is nothing to be ashamed of. If you think that you or your child might be struggling with a mood disorder, please contact us at 469 714-0006 or by emailing info@exulthealthcare.com. We offer compassionate services for all ages and are committed to your emotional health.

Reference:

“NAMI.” NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness, www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/June-2018/Beyond-Growing-Pains-Children-and-Mood-Disorders.

Written by Aly Bowles - Social Media Coordinator