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Depressive

Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder

Diagnosis of childhood (6 to 18 years) with intense and frequent, disproportionate tantrums, and an irritable mood almost every day.

Common signs

Outbursts of rage several times a weekConstant irritability between outburstsProblems at home and at school

Tips

For you

  1. See a child psychologist
  2. Guidance for the family: calm, clear limits and preparing ahead
  3. Teach them to recognise and name anger

For family and friends

  1. Stay calm and wait for the wave to pass before talking
  2. Prepare them for changes and difficult situations

When to ask for help

  1. If they hurt themselves or others
  2. If they talk about dying or disappearing: 024

Are you having a really hard time? If you're thinking of harming yourself, call 024 (free, 24 hours) or 112.

Test for families

For parents or relatives: answer thinking about the child or person you are worried about, over the last few weeks. There are 8 questions and you get your result straight away. Your answers are not saved or sent.

0 of 8
1. Has very intense, disproportionate tantrums
2. The outbursts happen several times a week
3. Between outbursts they are irritable or angry
4. The tantrums are more intense than those of other children their age
5. They happen at home, at school or with friends
6. Finds it hard to calm down once angry
7. Hits, breaks things or screams a lot
8. Living together has become very difficult

Free resources

Downloadable PDF sheetSigns, tips and resources to print or saveFree guide: Childhood and youthFree resource from Clínica VivaldiIllustrated books about emotions for childrenFree resource from Clínica Vivaldi

Related disorders

Depression (major depressive disorder)DepressivePersistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)DepressivePremenstrual dysphoric disorderDepressivePerinatal and postpartum depressionDepressive

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Reviewed by María Teresa Fernández Vicente, health psychologist and neuropsychologist (registration no. CV17304), in November 2026. Educational information prepared by the Clínica Vivaldi team based on the DSM-5-TR classification. It does not replace a professional assessment and cannot be used to diagnose.