Feeling great, very energetic, or in a very good mood more than usual

Children and adolescents go through different emotional phases and sometimes display a lot of energy, joy, or enthusiasm. These moments are often linked to pleasant situations, such as playing or receiving good news. However, 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 behavior but are linked to how the brain works. It is important to recognize that this is not an “exaggerated personality” or a “desire to show off,” but a condition that can compromise the life of the child or adolescent. At home, these mood swings can make it hard for children to concentrate, complete tasks, or interact with family.

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, such as running around the house, laughing out loud, or asking several questions in a row, 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 and can get quite excited about new things.
• By ages 9 and 11: Children experience more complex emotions and mood changes related to school and friendships but can still be very excited about achievements.
• By ages 12 and 14: Mood swings might become more intense due to changes during puberty, but they are usually short-lived, manageable, and linked to what is happening at the time.
• From age 14 onwards: Mood can fluctuate significantly, with moments of excitement about friendships and achievements. Gradually, joy and energy become more linked to personal interests and projects.

These feelings are a normal part of growing up and usually appear in specific situations, lasting only a short time. Even in these cases, the person can rest, maintain good sleep habits, and make balanced decisions.

When should I be concerned?

While mood changes are common, there are times when feeling great and energetic can become a concern. This happens when the excitement and energy are no longer proportional to the situation and begin to create risks or problems. If a child starts showing extreme changes in mood or behavior, 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 or sleep very little yet remain very active. They may have racing thoughts, grandiose ideas, or speak so quickly they are hard to follow.
• Risky behavior: The child might do things without thinking, take more risks than usual, or make plans that are far from reality.
• Rapid changes between highs and lows: The child might switch quickly from feeling very happy to feeling sad or angry for no clear reason.
• 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, respect limits, or take care of themselves.

These periods of high energy may alternate with phases of lower mood. When these moments of sadness appear alone, without periods of excessive energy, they may indicate another emotional condition.

What can I do to help?

As a caregiver, providing a stable and supportive environment is crucial. Here are some things you can try:

1. Create a consistent routine: Regular sleep schedules, mealtimes, and activities can help regulate mood.
2. Encourage healthy habits: Promote good nutrition, physical activity, and time outdoors to help regulate energy and well-being.
3. Provide a safe and supportive space: Make sure your child feels comfortable talking about their feelings without judgment.
4. Help them name their feelings: Saying things like, “You seem to have a lot of energy right now,” helps your child recognize their emotions.
5. Set clear limits with affection: Overly agitated children benefit from consistent rules and calm explanations about what is and is not allowed.
6. Provide breaks and moments of calm: Children with high energy can benefit from quiet activities during the day, such as reading or listening to soft music.
7. Monitor sleep patterns: Changes in sleep can significantly impact mood. Pay attention to whether your child is sleeping less or having difficulty.
8. Avoid harsh criticism or punishment: Instead, seek to understand the behavior and offer support so the child learns to manage their energy safely.
9. 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 pediatricianor 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, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

You can also find free support through the Unified Health System (SUS). Care often begins at your local Basic Health Unit (UBS). Other services include Child and Adolescent Psychosocial Care Centers (CAPS i), specialty centers, and clinics at university hospitals.