If you’re a parent to a teenager, you might wonder why your child experiences constant mood swings. Teenage mood swings are incredibly common, and while they are often dismissed as “just being a teenager,” they can sometimes be signs of more significant issues such as bipolar disorder. Exploring the reasons behind teenage mood swings, including developmental changes in brain activity, hormones, and emotions, can lead to a better understanding.
If you’re concerned about your teen’s constant mood swings or mental health, don’t hesitate to contact Imagine Spokane. We offer compassionate, professional care for adolescents struggling with mental health conditions. Contact us today at 888.384.3143 to learn about our adolescent depression treatment and how we can help your family.
Developmental Changes in Brain Activity
Significant changes occur in the brain during adolescence, which can cause mood swings. The prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for judgment, decision-making, and impulse control, is not fully developed until a person’s mid-20s. As a result, teenagers may have difficulty regulating their emotions and react impulsively to situations, leading to swings in mood.
Teenage Hormones and Emotions
Hormones play a significant role in the changes teenagers experience in their bodies and minds. Fluctuations in hormones can cause mood swings, leading to changes in behavior and emotions. Additionally, emotional responses may be more intense, leading to outbursts or depressive episodes. This is a normal part of adolescence, but it can become problematic when mood swings interfere with daily life or last for an extended period.
Teenage Mood Swings or Bipolar Disorder?
It is important to note that while mood swings are a standard part of adolescence, they can also be a symptom of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings, including periods of mania or hypomania, followed by depressive episodes. These episodes can last for days, weeks, or even months, significantly impacting a person’s daily life. If you suspect that your teenager may have bipolar disorder, it is essential to seek professional help immediately.
Adolescent Depression
In addition to mood swings, teenagers may also experience depression. Depression is a severe mental health condition that can cause sadness, hopelessness, anger, and frustration. Symptoms of depression can last for weeks or months and can interfere with daily life. If your teenager is struggling with depression, seeking treatment as soon as possible is crucial.
How Can Imagine Spokane Help?
At Imagine Spokane, we provide mental health treatment for teenagers, including CBT, DBT, and trauma therapy. We offer PHP (partial hospitalization) with a step down to IOP (intensive outpatient care) to provide the appropriate level of care for each patient. Our experienced team of therapists, doctors, and nurses customizes treatment plans to fit each patient’s unique needs, including medication management and educational advocacy.
Find Treatment for Bipolar and Mood Disorders at Imagine Spokane Today
If your teenager is struggling with constant mood swings, Imagine Spokane can help. Adolescent depression treatment program offers a range of evidence-based therapies, including group therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, CBT, DBT, and trauma therapy. Our trauma-informed care approach ensures that all our programs and services prioritize safety, trust, and empowerment for our patients.
Our PHP and IOP provide intensive mental health treatment and medication management for adolescents experiencing significant mood disturbances. Educational advocacy services can also help ensure your teen’s schooling is not compromised during this challenging time.
If you’re concerned about your teenager’s mood swings, we encourage you to contact us today at 888.384.3143 or online. Our team of mental health professionals is here to support your family and help your teenager build the skills and resilience they need to thrive.