Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder in Your Child: Care Instructions

Overview

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.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

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.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

You are so frustrated with your child that you are afraid you might hurt them.
You are afraid your child might hurt you, another family member, or themselves.

Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

If your child talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:

Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).
Text HOME to 741741 to access the Crisis Text Line.

Consider saving these numbers in your phone.

Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

You want to learn skills that can help you and your child with DMDD.
You want to see a counselor.
Your child does not get better as expected.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.