Mood Management

Managing the mood changes that accompany adolescence can be a challenge. Hormones that cause the physical changes during puberty also have an impact on emotions.

Students may experience:

• mood fluctuations,
• low or depressive mood,
• increases in anxiety,
• increases in aggression,
• strong sexual urges.

Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may have difficulty managing their feelings in a socially appropriate way. Recognising these feelings and labelling them can be challenging. It is helpful to teach students strategies that they can use when they are feeling overwhelmed. Words such as “anxious” or “aroused” are only helpful if the student has been taught what these words mean and how to know when they are experiencing these feelings.

Strategies to teach the student might include:

• pleasant distraction (such as exercise, listening to music, or using the computer)
• relaxation (such as having a break/nap, going for a walk or taking deep breaths)
• problem-solving (such as talking with a trustworthy friend or adult).

 A variety of self-management strategies can be taught. Specific strategies should be chosen by the teacher and student, which are meaningful and helpful for the individual. When teaching these strategies, explain why they are a good idea and how they can help the situation.