Overview
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a type of mood disorder in children and teens. Kids with DMDD feel irritable or angry most of the time. They have frequent (usually 3 or more times per week), intense temper outbursts, which can be verbal, physical, or both.
Tantrums are a typical part of growing up until children are about 6 years old. But outbursts that are frequent, intense, and not expected 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 counselling, behavioural therapy, 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 service provider (like a doctor, nurse, or therapist), mental helpline, or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) 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 an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or an Individualized Program Plan (IPP). These are ways to document your child's needs and help your child get the support they need in school.
- Help your child find a counsellor they like and trust. Encourage your child to talk openly and honestly about their problems.
- Ask your doctor or service provider 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 behaviour issues.
Support is available. In Alberta, you can call Health Link at 811 or use resources like:
