How to Spot Mood Disorders in Children—And What You Can Do About It

When a “Bad Mood” Might Be Something More

Children naturally experience mood swings—especially during developmental leaps or stressful transitions. Tantrums, frustration, and sadness are all expected during development. However when mood changes become intense, long-lasting, and  disruptive to daily life, they may be an indicator of a mood disorder.

A typical “bad day” might involve a child feeling sad or irritated, but bouncing back with a good night’s sleep, support from a parent, or a playdate. In contrast, children with mood disorders may remain persistently irritable or angry with intense outbursts. They may also present with restricted affect, lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, or struggle with focus and fatigue for weeks or longer.

Why Early Signs Matter More Than Ever

Post-pandemic data shows a sharp increase in mood disorders in children and adolescents. According to the CDC and JAMA Pediatrics, rates of major depressive disorder and related conditions have surged, with roughly 1 in 5 children now showing signs of emotional or behavioral health concerns.

The earlier a child receives help, the better the outcomes. Left untreated, mood disorders can impact brain development, well-being, school performance, and social relationships—making early intervention crucial.

Common Mood Disorders in Kids (And How They Really Look)

Depression: More Than Just Sadness

Depression in children doesn’t always present as it does in adults. Instead of verbalizing they feel sad, children may seem persistently irritable, fatigued, or withdrawn. Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy level are common, as are somatic complaints (including sleeping too much or too little, not eating, presenting with stomach aches or headaches).

Younger children may express depressive symptoms through clinging, withdrawal, regression, aggression, or a sudden loss of interest in play. Difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and other clinical concerns may also be present, such as restricted affect or persistent sadness or hopelessness, underscoring the importance in exploring or addressing this with your child. 

Bipolar Disorder and Extreme Mood Swings

Bipolar disorder includes alternating episodes of depression and mania. During a manic episode, children might have an unusually high energy level, need little sleep, or talk rapidly with racing thoughts. Risk-taking behaviors or grandiose ideas ("I'm the best at everything") may emerge.

Unlike adults, mood swings in children with bipolar disorder can happen rapidly and may be mistaken for defiance or ADHD. A proper diagnosis requires close clinical assessment over time.

DMDD: The New Diagnosis Behind Chronic Irritability

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is a newer diagnosis that explains persistent irritability and frequent, severe temper outbursts in kids under age 18. Outbursts occur at least three times a week and are grossly out of proportion to the situation. 

DMDD is often confused with oppositional defiant disorder or ADHD, however the key difference is the mood component—a persistently negative, angry baseline mood between episodes is present with DMDD.

Anxiety That Feels Like a Mood Problem

Sometimes what appears to be a mood disorder is actually rooted in anxiety. Children may withdraw socially, refuse school, or cry frequently due to overwhelming worry.

Anxiety and depression are closely linked—with strong comorbidities. Treating both together, especially when symptoms overlap, is essential for effective care. Chronic, persistent stress can influence susceptibility to anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of addressing anxiety and distress in supportive ways with your child, and ensuring they feel emotionally safe to express their feelings. 

How to Tell If Your Child Needs Help

Behaviors to Pay Attention To

Here’s a checklist of behaviors that may indicate a type of mood disorder:

• Loss of interest in favorite activities
  
• Persistent mood swings or irritability
  
• Withdrawal from friends or family
  
• Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)
  
• Appetite or weight changes
  
• Physical complaints with no clear cause
  
• Trouble concentrating
  
• Talk of hopelessness, worthlessness, or death
  

If these symptoms last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s time to consult a mental health professional.

Debunking the “They’ll Grow Out of It” Myth

It’s tempting to hope your child will “grow out of” a difficult phase. But mood disorders, including major depression and bipolar disorder, often worsen without treatment.

The longer symptoms persist, the more they can interfere with learning, friendships, and self-esteem—delaying essential developmental milestones.

Ways to Support Your Child Through a Mood Disorder

What Therapy Can Offer (It’s Not Just Talking)

Evidence-based therapies can make a dramatic difference. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps children identify negative thought patterns and learn healthy ways to manage emotions. It’s especially effective for depression, anxiety, and DMDD.

Behavioral Parent Training (BPT) equips caregivers with practical tools to reinforce positive behavior and reduce emotional outbursts. Therapy isn’t just for the child—it’s for the whole family.

As always, ensuring the child has a healthy environment—including sufficient nourishment, sleep. moment, play, sunshine and emotionally safe connections with others (including their parents) are also imperative in modulating and supporting mood.  

Helping Kids Thrive at Every Age

Preschool to Elementary School

Younger children may express emotional distress through tantrums, regression, or dramatic shifts in behavior. They may act out at school, cling to caregivers, or become unusually quiet.

Partnering with teachers and pediatricians helps ensure that mood issues aren’t misattributed to “just bad behavior.” Early school-based interventions can be very effective.

Tween and Teen Years

In middle and high school, mood disorders often show up as internalized symptoms—low motivation, academic struggles, social isolation, or self-harming behaviors.

This age group is particularly vulnerable to peer pressure, academic stress, and the influence of social media, all of which can amplify mood symptoms. Supportive adults who notice and act early make a critical difference.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone

Remember: You’re Not Overreacting

If something feels off with your child’s mood, trust your gut. Seeking help doesn’t mean you're labeling or pathologizing your child—it means you're listening and acting on your instincts.

Your concern is not just valid—it’s the first and most important step toward healing.

Get Support from Experts Who Understand Kids

At Handspring Health, we specialize in mood disorders in children and teens. Our team uses evidence-based care tailored to each child’s needs—with fast access, flexible scheduling, and in-network insurance options.

Schedule a free consultation today and take the first step toward clarity and support.

👉 Visit handspringhealth.com for more info.

FAQs

Q1: How can I tell if my child’s irritability is normal or something serious?
If your child’s moods interfere with school, friendships, or family life—and the behavior persists for weeks—it may go beyond a phase. A licensed provider can help sort out what’s typical and what’s not.

Q2: What’s the first step to getting help?
Start by scheduling an evaluation with a pediatric mental health provider. Handspring offers free intake calls, often within 48 hours, and can quickly match your child with the right therapist.