Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder in Teens: Care Instructions

Overview

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a new type of mood disorder. Symptoms include feeling irritable or angry most of the time, with frequent, intense temper outbursts. These outbursts can be verbal, physical, or both.

DMDD starts before age 10. It can last into your teenage years. The symptoms of DMDD are similar to another disorder called oppositional defiant disorder (ODD). When you have DMDD, you may also have other disorders (such as 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 symptoms. Options for treatment include counseling and medicine.

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

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Understand what causes your outbursts. Have a plan for how you can avoid or deal with these triggers. Sometimes, removing yourself from the situation can help.

• Ask a parent or your doctor to help you find a counselor you like and trust. Talk openly and honestly about your problems. Be willing to make some changes.

• Ask your doctor about family therapy. This can help the rest of your family better understand you. It can also help your family learn how to communicate better.

• Make sure you go to all counseling appointments.

• Talk to your parents. Let them know how they can help you work through your feelings. It's okay to be angry or upset sometimes.

• Ask a school counselor or teacher what resources for support your school has, and use them.

• Find a support group. If you're interested, ask your counselor to help you find one that might work for you.

When should you call for help?

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

You are so frustrated that you are afraid you might hurt someone else or yourself.

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

If you or someone you know 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 health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

	You want to learn skills that can help you with DMDD.
	You want to see a counselor.
	You do not get better as expected.

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.