Children of all ages can experience mood swings, and they can be the result of natural and unnatural causes and development. There are a variety of solutions that include responsibilities for parents and doctors, but the solution depends on the cause of the mood swings. To determine the cause of your child's mood swings, be sure to talk to his doctor. Misinterpreting the cause of his mood swings can prevent a solution and further frustrate your child.
Toddler Development
Toddlers experience a lot of changes and growth, and they cannot express herself with language quite yet. According to the University of Illinois Extension, it is common for toddlers to have mood swings. Although their emotions during these mood swings are intense, they do not last very long. If the mood swings are simply a result of age and development, they will occur less often as they grow out of toddlerhood.
Puberty
Mood swings are common during puberty, which occurs in middle to late childhood and into the teenage years. The hormonal changes in puberty are responsible for rapid emotional changes. A child also often experiences social pressure during this period of changing into an adult, which can contribute to the mood swings. Parent & Child Magazine suggests that you be understanding during this time. You can also try to get to the root of emotional outbursts and give your child a lot of love and attention.
Childhood Stress
A child may sometimes experience extreme stress that can contribute to mood swings, and your child may also act out, wet the bed, withdraw from others and experience stomachaches and headaches. This unnatural level of stress can be caused by separation from parents, involvement in too many activities, death of a loved one, illness or exposure to disturbing news on the television. Hearing parents discuss marriage troubles or finance issues can also cause stress in a child. According to Kids Health, rest and good nutrition can help reduce childhood stress and mood swings. You can also have your child limit extracurricular activities that are causing stress and avoid exposing your child to unnecessary negative information.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the result of insufficient chemicals in areas of the brain that handle thought and organization. As a result, a child with ADHD may experience mood swings and have difficulty paying attention and following instructions. Family Doctor states that ADHD is most common in boys, although it can affect girls as well. The symptoms of ADHD, including mood swings, can be controlled with behavioral therapy and medication. Your child's doctor may also suggest things you can do at home to minimize your child's frustration, such as establish clear house rules and a set schedule.
Bipolar Disorder
It is possible for a child to develop bipolar disorder, especially if there is a family history of the condition. Symptoms of bipolar disorder in a child include severe mood swings in which he goes between periods of mania and depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, manic episodes can consist of the child's being unusually happy and having trouble concentrating. During periods of depression, the child may be sad and lose interest in things. These severe mood swings can happen several times a day and can make things difficult for the child. The symptoms of bipolar disorder can be mistaken for normal mood swings or ADHD, so it best to see a child psychiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
