Mood Disorders
Types of Mood and Emotional Challenges in Children and Teens
Anxiety Disorders
Symptoms may include excessive worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, or separation anxiety.
Anxiety Disorders
Symptoms may include excessive worry, panic attacks, social anxiety, or separation anxiety.
Adjustment Disorders
Emotional responses to life changes or stressors (e.g., divorce, moving).
Depressive Disorders
Persistent sadness, loss of interest, low energy, irritability.
Trauma-Related Conditions
Emotional challenges following distressing or traumatic events.
Bipolar Disorder
Periods of high energy or irritability alternating with sadness or fatigue.
Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)
Severe irritability and temper outbursts.
Understanding Mood Disorders
Mood disorders are more than occasional sadness or worry. They are persistent emotional states that interfere with a child’s daily life.
- These conditions affect how children feel, think, and act.
- Emotional challenges may appear as irritability, withdrawal, or acting out.
- Children may not always have the words to express their distress.
Mood concerns often show up in school performance, relationships, or behavior.
- Frequent tearfulness or sadness.
- Intense worry or fear that interferes with daily activities.
- Irritability, anger outbursts, or aggression.
- Withdrawal from friends or activities once enjoyed.
- Trouble concentrating, sleeping, or eating.
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
Emotional challenges can impact every part of a child’s life.
- School becomes difficult due to concentration and motivation issues.
- Relationships with peers and family may suffer.
- Confidence and self-esteem decline.
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches may increase.
- Behavioral concerns may arise from trying to cope with overwhelming feelings.
Psychoeducational testing helps differentiate mood disorders from other conditions like ADHD or learning disabilities.
- Identifies whether emotional difficulties are primary or secondary to other struggles.
- Provides a comprehensive understanding of how mood impacts learning and behavior.
- Guides appropriate interventions, including therapy, school accommodations, and family support.
- Ensures a holistic view of the child’s functioning.
Addressing mood disorders early leads to better outcomes.
- Prevents emotional distress from becoming entrenched.
- Helps children develop healthy coping strategies.
- Improves school performance and relationships.
- Reduces the risk of long-term mental health issues.
- Supports parents in understanding and responding effectively to their child’s needs.
What Happens When a Child Receives Psychoeducational Testing?
Families gain:
Insight into the emotional factors affecting their child.
A detailed report with tailored recommendations for home, school, and therapy.
Clarity on whether symptoms are due to anxiety, depression, trauma, or another issue.
Reassurance that the child’s challenges are real, valid, and addressable with appropriate support.
A thorough evaluation that includes emotional, cognitive, and behavioral components.
Emotional Well-being Is Essential to Learning
An evaluation can help explain your child’s moods and guide you toward effective support.
