Children go through many stages in their young lives, some happy, others tough. It's common for children to throw tantrums and have mood swings, but those episodes should subside quickly.
If your child seems to have severe mood swings that persist, it's a good idea to have an evaluation by an expert. Dr. Sindu Pillai provides behavioral evaluations at her practice in Murrieta, California.
Dr. Pillai is a pediatric specialist providing sick visits, nurse visits, and behavioral evaluations for kids of all ages.
Children go through many stages of life before hitting adulthood, each with its own challenges. It isn’t uncommon for children to be happy one minute and crying the next.
However, when simple temper tantrums turn into frequent mood swings, it may be more than a typical tantrum. Various things lead to childhood mood swings, and they include the following:
There are various other reasons your child could be experiencing different emotions. Still, it typically requires an expert evaluation to get a definitive diagnosis.
If your child is experiencing frequent mood swings that are difficult to control, it's a good idea to schedule a behavioral evaluation. Our experts help you determine the cause of your child's mood swings and the appropriate treatment plan.
But what are the signs that signal you should schedule an evaluation for your child? We recommend making an appointment if you notice any of the following signs:
Lying, stealing, or social withdrawal are other signs your child may need a behavioral evaluation. Noticing your child dealing with anxiety or depression is another reason for mood swings, which requires an assessment for an accurate diagnosis.
At your child's appointment, Dr. Pillai discusses their behavior and mood swings with you and your child. She asks how long they've been going on, what you've tried at home, and how often they occur.
She also asks about other symptoms that may accompany the mood swings. For instance, if they have been withdrawn and sad, or seem to be worried all of the time, or have violent outbursts.
We request that both parents and the child be present at the evaluation for an accurate diagnosis. We also review your child's medical history and your family history.
We want to know how your child does at home, with friends and family, and at school. Be specific about the issues you're experiencing with your child so we can get a clear picture of what's happening.
Dr. Pillai also asks your child how they're feeling and about any symptoms they experience. After gathering information and using professional diagnostic tools, we form a diagnosis and provide several treatment options.
Contact our Murrieta, California, office today to schedule a behavioral evaluation with Dr. Pillai, or click here to request a consultation on our website.
