Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a condition that occurs in childhood and is associated with extreme irritability, anger, and frequent, intense temper outbursts. It is important to note the challenges associated with DMDD are very debilitating and are more than just a child being “moody” or irritable due to certain context (i.e., illness, pain, challenging life transitions). Symptoms typically occur before the child’s 10th birthday and a diagnosis is not given to children under 6yo or individuals over 18 years old.

Symptoms

For a 12 month period, a child will experience:

• Irritability and/or angry mood for most of the day, nearly every day
• During these periods, they will have significant outburst (whether verbal or physical) at least three or more times a week that are above and beyond what someone would expect based on where the child is from a developmental standpoint
• The child has trouble functioning in various areas of their lives - whether home, school, or with their peers.

‍