Feeling great, very energetic, or in a very good mood more than usual can be part of a condition known as bipolar disorder, which involves extreme mood changes. Children with bipolar disorder may have periods of high energy and happiness, and other times when they feel very sad or tired. During these high-energy periods, children might act impulsively, take risks, or have trouble focusing. These mood changes are not due to a lack of effort or poor behaviour but are linked to how the brain works. At home, these mood swings can make it hard for children to concentrate, complete tasks, or interact with family. Understanding these signs can help caregivers provide the right support and create a positive environment.
What is typical?
Feeling happy and energetic is a normal part of growing up. Children often experience changes in their mood based on what’s happening around them. These feelings usually come and go and are related to events like playing with friends or doing well in school. Here’s what you might expect to see at different ages:
- By age 5: Children may have short bursts of energy and excitement, often related to playtime or special events.
- Between ages 6 and 8: Children start to understand their emotions better but might still have trouble controlling them.
- By ages 9 and 11: Children experience more complex emotions and mood changes related to school and friendships.
- By ages 12 and 14: Mood swings might become more intense due to changes during puberty, but they are usually short-lived and manageable.
These feelings are a normal part of growing up, and everyone experiences them differently. It’s important for caregivers to recognise when these feelings are typical and when they might indicate something more.
When should I be concerned?
While mood changes are common, there are times when feeling great and energetic can become a concern. If a child starts showing extreme changes in mood or behaviour, it might be a sign of something more serious. Here are some signs to watch for:
- Extreme changes in personality: The child might seem like a different person during these periods.
- Very high moods: The child might be extremely happy, energetic, talkative, and impulsive. They may have trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, and grandiose ideas. In severe cases, they may lose touch with reality.
- Risky behaviour: The child might do things without thinking or take more risks than usual.
- Rapid changes between highs and lows: The child might switch quickly from feeling very happy to feeling sad or angry.
- Mixed feelings: The child might experience symptoms of both high energy and sadness at the same time, such as feeling sad but also having racing thoughts and agitation.
- Mood swings that interfere with daily life: The child’s mood swings may make it hard for them to do well in school, get along with others, or take care of themselves.
If you notice these signs in a child, it is important to consider these behaviours in the context of their overall well-being and daily activities.
What can I do to help?
As a caregiver, providing a stable and supportive environment is crucial. Here are some things you can try:
- Create a consistent routine: Regular sleep schedules, mealtimes, and activities can help regulate mood.
- Encourage healthy habits: Promote good nutrition, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
- Provide a safe and supportive space: Make sure your child feels comfortable talking about their feelings without judgment.
- Teach coping skills: Help your child learn healthy ways to manage stress and difficult emotions.
- Limit stressors: Reduce exposure to stressful situations or triggers whenever possible.
- Monitor sleep patterns: Changes in sleep can significantly impact mood.
- Seek professional help: If mood swings are severe or disruptive, it’s important to seek professional guidance.
What kind of professional support can I seek out?
If your child’s mood ups and downs are severe, persistent, or disruptive, it’s essential to seek professional help.
First, you should speak with your child’s paediatrician or family doctor. They can refer you to other specialists, such as mental health professionals.
A mental health professional can evaluate your child and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Public services are also available at your local clinic.
When looking for affordable services, it may also be helpful to explore local non-governmental organisations which offer services to families.
Local universities may offer services to the public as part of professional training programmes.
Please don’t give up if you don’t have success in your first attempts at getting help. Go back to the services listed above and look at our online list for additional resources or support. Your child is worth the effort.
Where to find more information
For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.