What is disruptive mood dysregulation disorder?

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a new type of mood disorder in children and teens. Kids with DMDD feel irritable or angry most of the time. They have frequent, intense temper outbursts, which can be verbal, physical, or both.

Tantrums are a normal part of growing up. But outbursts that are frequent, intense, and not normal for your child's age can be a sign of a problem.

DMDD starts before age 10. It can last into the teenage years. The symptoms of DMDD are similar to another disorder called oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). When your child has DMDD, they may also have other disorders (like depression or ADHD). Not all experts agree with the new DMDD diagnosis. Some say there isn't enough research to fully understand it yet.

There are no current guidelines to treat DMDD. But it can be treated based on your child's symptoms. Options for treatment include counseling and medicine.

The symptoms of DMDD are similar to other disorders, such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). Children and teens with DMDD have:

• Intense verbal or physical temper outbursts. These outbursts:
  • Happen about 3 or more times each week.
  • Are more intense than expected for the cause.
  • Don't match the child's age or development.
• An irritable or angry mood that lasts most of the day, nearly every day. And the mood is noticed at home, at school, and by peers.

In kids with DMDD, these temper outbursts and mood problems last for at least a year.

There are no current guidelines to treat DMDD. But it can be treated based on a child's symptoms. Treatments include counseling and medicine. Talk with your doctor about what treatment plan would be most helpful for your child.

A child with DMDD can try different types of counseling. Some types can help them learn to change their thoughts and actions. Other types can help a child learn to better control their emotions.

Family members can try family therapy or parent training. These programs teach family members helpful ways to respond to angry outbursts.

Medicines for DMDD may help your child's symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the benefits, risks, and side effects before starting any medicine.

A doctor or mental health professional will ask about your child's behavior. This includes questions about their mood at home, at school, and with friends, and how often your child has verbal or physical outbursts. A physical exam and tests may also be done to check for other health problems.

• Understand what causes outbursts in your child. Have a plan in place for avoiding or dealing with these triggers. Sometimes, removing your child from the situation can help.
• Learn how you can support your child.
  • Take parent education classes. They can teach you ways to positively respond to outbursts.
  • Tell your child's school that your child has DMDD. Ask about a 504 plan or an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). These are programs to help your child get the support they need in school.
• Help your child find a counselor they like and trust. Encourage your child to talk openly and honestly about their problems.
• Ask your doctor about family therapy. This can help your family better communicate and to understand your child with DMDD.
• Make time for your own self-care. When you take care of yourself, you're better able to take care of others.
• Talk to other parents who have kids with behavior issues.

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a new type of mood disorder in children and teens. Kids with DMDD are irritable or angry most of the time, with frequent, intense temper outbursts that are verbal, physical, or both. Children with DMDD are more likely to have other disorders (like depression or anxiety) in adulthood.