Understanding low moods

Neurodiverse young people often need more time alone, especially in their rooms. This is normal.

Their brains work hard and use up lots of energy when they:

  • focus very hard
  • try to hide how they really feel (masking)
  • try to ignore noises, lights or things that bother them (sensory overload).

Due to this, they often need a lot of rest. Sometimes this means extra sleep but often it just means quiet time in a safe, calm place even if they are not asleep.

When sleep patterns change

Sometimes, sleep is used to avoid stress or difficult feelings. Staying up all night and sleeping during the day can feel easier for some young people. But this pattern can increase the risk of serious mental health problems. Professionals will usually try to help your child return to a healthier routine.

Avoiding things regularly can lead to more anxiety. It’s important to talk about what your child is avoiding and why.

What depression looks like

Depression is more than sadness. It usually means a low mood that lasts for a while and affects daily life. It’s different from the rapid mood changes or understandable distress that may be part of a neurodivergent child’s experience. A diagnosis of clinical depression looks for a persistent low mood with a clear starting point, even if the cause isn’t known.

When clinicians agree a programme of increasing meaningful activities, it may be called Behavioural Activation.

In children, it can also show as irritability.

Mood changes are common in neurodiverse children. What matters is knowing what’s normal for your child and noticing what has changed.

Helping your child feel better

There are simple ways to lift mood and reduce risk:

  • gentle physical activity
  • doing things that feel useful
  • connecting with others

These actions help the brain release chemicals that support wellbeing.

Meaningful activities

Doing small, meaningful things can help your child feel more connected and valued. If they:

  • care about fairness: sign a petition, write to an MP, join a cause
  • are animal lovers: walk a neighbour’s dog, help at a charity shop, join a wildlife group
  • are very family-focused: make a card, help with chores, say something kind
  • think about their community: tidy a shared space, join a support group, donate items

These activities don’t need to be big. What matters is that they help your child feel part of something.

Looking ahead

It helps to talk about the future. If your child can say, “This feeling will pass,” it can bring hope to both of you.

Some neurodiverse children find it hard to imagine the future. That’s okay. Try making small plans for next week, or for a holiday, to show that better days are coming.