Mood Disorders in Adolescents

Mood disorders are mental health disorders in which difficulties in emotional regulation cause distress and hinder activities of daily living. Mood [Page 1088]disorders, such as depression and bipolar traits, can be common among adolescents. Because mood disorders tend to manifest by interfering with academic and social interactions, they may interfere with development and lead to other disorders such as substance use, anxiety, oppositional defiant disorder, or conduct disorder. Manifestations of mood disorders include sadness and mania. Depression is generally marked by sadness and disturbances in appetite, sleep, energy, and focus. This can include overeating, loss of appetite, or sleeping too much or not enough. Severe depression is more dramatic and features hopelessness and suicidal thoughts or attempts. Mood disorders are different from bereavement, where experiencing ...