Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) is a childhood mental health condition that causes severe irritability, anger, and frequent outbursts.
Some people continue to face challenges with chronic irritability as adults, which can raise the risk of depression and anxiety disorders.
Therapy can help adults who still experience DMDD-related irritability build coping skills and improve emotional control.
Temper tantrums are a normal part of growing up. But when they’re extremely intense and happen almost every day, they could be a sign of disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD), a childhood mood disorder involving severe irritability, anger, and frequent outbursts.
DMDD is only diagnosed in children, but chronic irritability can sometimes continue into adulthood. Research shows kids with DMDD may be more likely to develop depression or anxiety later in life. Early treatment can help manage symptoms and lower this risk.
Can children outgrow DMDD?
While DMDD may not carry on into adulthood, its effects can contribute to the development of other mental health challenges. Symptoms of DMDD often lessen with age, but as a child or teen may experience fewer tantrums, they might start showing signs of depression and anxiety.
Since DMDD is a relatively new diagnosis, some adults may have unknowingly struggled with it as children. If you recognize a pattern of past tantrums, irritability, and anger that might suggest undiagnosed DMDD, consider discussing it with your therapist. They can help you explore the roots of your mood disorder, build self-compassion, and guide your treatment.
The symptoms of DMDD include:
Severe temper outbursts at least three times a week
Sad, irritable, or angry mood almost every day
Disproportionate reactions to situations
Trouble functioning in more than one place (home, school, or with friends)
For a child to receive a DMDD diagnosis, they must be at least six years old and have shown symptoms before the age of 10. Also, symptoms must be present for at least a year.
Sometimes, children and teens see their DMDD symptoms fade over time. But without proper treatment, DMDD doesn’t just go away. If you suspect you had DMDD as a child or your child is showing symptoms of this condition, know that treatment is available.
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What can DMDD turn into later on?
Research on the long-term outcomes of children diagnosed with DMDD is still emerging. Some experts believe that the chronic irritability seen in DMDD may stem from a mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors — like differences in brain development, exposure to early stress, or inconsistent emotional support. When this irritability isn’t addressed, it can carry into adulthood and increase the risk of other mental health conditions.
Some of the mental health conditions that may develop in adults who had DMDD as children include:
Major depressive disorder (MDD): Also known as clinical depression, MDD is a mood disorder characterized by a persistent sad and hopeless mood and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities lasting for two weeks or more.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): GAD is characterized by intense, uncontrolled anxiety that interrupts your ability to function in daily life.
Social anxiety disorder: Social anxiety disorder is defined by an intense fear of judgment or rejection from others. To cope, many people avoid social situations and isolate, which can lead to loneliness.
Conduct disorder (CD): CD involves more severe behavioral problems, such as aggression toward people or animals, destruction of property, and serious violations of rules.
Persistent irritability: For some adults, the symptoms of DMDD can evolve into persistent irritability or problems with anger as adults.
Addressing DMDD symptoms early can help children learn how to manage their emotions, regulate their moods, and prevent DMDD from evolving into other mental health conditions.
Professional support for your DMDD journey
For people with a history of DMDD, developing coping skills, engaging in therapy, and creating a strong support network can significantly improve quality of life.
Treatment for DMDD typically involves talk therapy and, in some cases, medication. Having a comprehensive treatment plan is key in helping to reduce the severity of DMDD symptoms and lowering the risk of developing other conditions. You can work with a qualified mental health provider to determine the best treatment approach for your life and circumstances.
Types of therapy that may be particularly helpful for DMDD, depression, and anxiety include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of talk therapy can help you navigate and reframe difficult feelings and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Widely used to treat anxiety and depression, DBT emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT): This type of therapy helps you accept difficult emotions or thoughts rather than avoiding them.
Coping skills for irritability related to adult DMDD
Lifestyle changes and coping skills can help you regulate your emotions and find balance in your day-to-day life. These may include:
Breathing techniques: Practicing deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress and anger. For example, taking slow, deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth can calm your nervous system and help you regain control during moments of frustration.
A healthy sleep schedule: Getting consistent sleep is essential for managing your emotions. Not getting enough sleep can lead to emotional dysregulation and increased irritability.
Regular exercise: Moving your body daily can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost mental health. Even a walk around the block can make a difference in your mood and outlook.
A nutritious diet: Focus on a balanced diet with nutrients that support the brain, stabilize mood, and keep energy steady. This can include complex carbs, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed sugars and caffeine while staying hydrated.
One overlooked factor that can significantly influence treatment outcomes is the role of supportive relationships. For adults living with ongoing irritability linked to past DMDD, having partners, friends, or family who understand their triggers and respond calmly can create a more supportive environment that improves treatment outcomes.
Brandy Chalmers, LPC
Clinical reviewer
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If you’re the parent of a child with DMDD or you suspect you had DMDD as a child, talking with a mental health professional can help. A therapist trained in DMDD can show you how to develop coping skills, build self-awareness, and create habits that support your well-being.
With Rula, you can connect with our network of over 15,000 therapists to find a provider with experience treating DMDD. With just a few clicks, you can meet with a therapist via live video as soon as tomorrow.
Linda Childers
Linda is an award-winning medical writer with experience writing for major media outlets, health companies, hospitals, and both consumer and trade print and digital outlets.
Her articles have appeared in the Washington Post, USA Today, WebMD, AARP, Brain+Life, HealthyWomen.org, The Rheumatologist, California Health Report, Everyday Health, HealthCentral, and many other media outlets.
While juggling the responsibilities of being part of the “sandwich generation” and caring for both her toddler son and terminally ill mother, a nurse friend encouraged her to seek therapy, which helped her to learn coping strategies and manage her depression. Linda hopes her work will help to destigmatize mental health conditions and encourage others to get the help they need.
Brandy Chalmers, LPC
Having faced challenges like childhood abuse, neglect, and the loss of her father to suicide, Brandy Chalmers is deeply passionate about providing compassionate care. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and Registered Play Therapist with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.
Brandy also teaches at a university, sharing her expertise with future mental health professionals. With over a decade of experience in settings like inpatient care and private practice, she specializes in helping clients with perfectionism, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, and life changes.
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