In a conversation with a renowned New York-based producer, EDM DJ Zaxx, he opened up about his journey in the music industry, detailing his struggles with addiction and mental pain as a teenager. His experiences emphasize the importance of prioritizing mental health, especially when facing anxiety. Zaxx found healing through music, illustrating its powerful role in managing emotions and promoting recovery. His story serves as a reminder to seek medical help that can provide relief to those grappling with mood disorders.

An estimated 21.4% of U.S. adults experience any mood disorder at some time in their lives. While it isn’t always linked to a mental health disorder, it can be a symptom of conditions like disruptive mood dysregulation disorder and bipolar disorder. In this blog, we will explore the types of mood dysregulation disorders, their symptoms, causes, and risk factors, how they differ from other mood disorders, and available treatment options.

What is Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a mental health condition characterized by chronic, intense irritability with frequent and severe anger outbursts in children. Unlike typical childhood moodiness, DMDD symptoms are more severe and persistent, with temper outbursts that are disproportionate in intensity or duration relative to the situation. To meet the diagnostic criteria, symptoms must begin before age 10 and significantly disrupt the child’s daily life.

It refers to difficulties managing emotional responses that fall outside the typical range of reactions. This can manifest as marked mood fluctuations, mood swings, or labile mood. Individuals with mood dysregulation disorder may experience angry outbursts, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, and self-harming behaviors.

Types of Mood Dysregulation Disorders

Mood dysregulation disorders can significantly impact a person’s emotional well-being and overall quality of life. Here are some common types:

• Major Depressive Disorder

It is characterized by persistent sadness and a loss of interest in activities for at least two weeks. It can significantly impact daily functioning and relationships.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

A long-term form of depression with mild to moderate symptoms lasting two years or more. It can lead to chronic feelings of hopelessness and low energy.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder

Symptoms of significant depression occur during specific times of the year, often when days are shorter. Light therapy is a standard treatment that can be effective.

• Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

It is diagnosed in children and teens who display excessive irritability and anger. Early intervention can help improve emotional regulation. Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder is a relatively new diagnosis, affecting around 2% to 5% of children in the U.S. Emotional dysregulation involves difficulty managing emotions. 

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

A severe form of premenstrual syndrome that causes significant mood changes and anxiety. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes and medication.

• Bipolar Disorder

It involves alternating episodes of depression and mania, making stability challenging. Effective management typically includes therapy and medication.

Other types include cyclothymia, hypomania, substance-induced mood disorder, and mood disorder due to a general medical condition. Factors such as family history, trauma, stress, significant life changes, physical illness, or certain medications can contribute to mood dysregulation disorders.

Understanding these disorders is essential for seeking appropriate support and treatment.

Symptoms of Mood Dysregulation Disorder

Signs of mood dysregulation disorder can vary from person to person, as each individual’s experience is unique. Generally, emotional dysregulation means having intense emotions in response to triggers, leading to feelings of being out of control. Many may struggle to recognize their emotions and feel confused, guilty, or stressed about their reactions.

Some common signs include:

• Feeling intense emotions about minor situations
• Rapid and intense mood changes
• Feeling overwhelmed by emotions
• Struggling to control intense feelings
• Difficulty coping with stress
• Symptoms of depression
• Symptoms of anxiety
• Engaging in self-harm
• Using substances excessively

These signs can indicate that someone is dealing with emotional dysregulation and may need support to manage their emotions more effectively.

Causes of Mood Dysregulation 

Emotional dysregulation can stem from various factors:

• Early childhood trauma

Traumatic events during crucial developmental years can significantly impact emotional health.

• Child neglect

Lack of care and failure to meet a child’s basic needs can lead to emotional struggles.

• Traumatic brain injury

A blow to the head can disrupt normal brain function and emotional regulation.

• Chronic invalidation

Regularly having one’s feelings dismissed or judged can hinder emotional development.

Experts believe that emotional dysregulation may be linked to neurotransmitter imbalances. These imbalances prevent the brain’s emotional regulation mechanisms from functioning correctly, keeping individuals in a heightened state of stress.

Disorders Related to Emotional Dysregulation

• PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder often leads to severe emotional dysregulation, manifesting as flashbacks, anxiety, and emotional numbness.

• Borderline Personality Disorder

This condition disrupts self-image and emotional management, resulting in unstable relationships and daily functioning difficulties.

How Mood Dysregulation Disorder Differs from Other Mood Disorders

Mood Dysregulation Disorder differs from other mood disorders in several ways:

1. Age of Onset

DMDD is specific to children and adolescents, while other mood disorders, like Major Depressive Disorder, can affect anyone.

2. Nature of Symptoms

DMDD involves chronic irritability and severe temper outbursts that are disproportionate to the situation, unlike Major Depressive Disorder, which focuses on persistent sadness.

3. Duration

DMDD symptoms must last for at least 12 months, while other disorders may have shorter diagnostic criteria, such as a two-week episode for Major Depression.

4. Impact on Functioning

DMDD significantly disrupts a child’s social life and school performance, whereas adults with other mood disorders might maintain their work responsibilities despite their symptoms.

These distinctions help ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Treatment Options for Mood Dysregulation Disorder 

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD) is relatively new, and research on its treatment is limited. Current treatment options mainly draw from studies on related childhood conditions, such as anxiety and ADHD. Effective treatments include psychotherapy and medications, with psychotherapy often recommended first.

Psychotherapy

This involves working with a trained mental health professional to help children recognize and change unhealthy emotions and behaviors. Effective types include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

This helps children understand how their thoughts impact emotions and actions, promoting healthier thinking and frustration tolerance.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Designed for those with intense emotions, DBT teaches emotion regulation and helps prevent extreme outbursts.

• Parent Training

This educates parents on effectively responding to their child’s irritability and implementing consistent, positive reinforcement strategies.

Medication

Currently, no  medications are specifically approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for DMDD, some may help manage symptoms:

• Stimulants used for ADHD can also reduce irritability in children with DMDD.
• Antidepressants can address mood issues; studies show that certain combinations, such as citalopram with methylphenidate, can decrease irritability.
• Atypical Antipsychotics may be prescribed for severe irritability or aggression when other treatments have failed, but they are typically considered only after exploring other options.

Medications may have side effects, so monitoring and communication with healthcare providers are essential.