Depression in children: How is it treated?
What is the most effective treatment of depression in children?
Many years ago, doctors didn't believe that children could experience depression. But
mental health experts now know that depression is as common in kids as it is in
adults. Early detection and treatment of depression in children is important.
Treatment of depression in children may include psychotherapy and antidepressant
medications. Opinions vary as to which form of treatment should be tried first. But a
growing body of evidence indicates that for most children the best approach is a
combination of both.
Studies show that a form of psychotherapy called short-term cognitive behavior therapy
relieves symptoms of depression in many kids. Children who are depressed often have
an unhealthy, negative view of themselves and their experiences. Cognitive behavior
therapy helps children develop a healthier, more positive view. Research suggests that
this type of therapy can be faster and more effective than other types of therapy in some
kids.
Even when symptoms of depression go away, a therapist may recommend that a child
continue psychotherapy for a time. This may further develop and enhance the child's
coping skills - reducing the risk that depression will recur.
Medication also can help. The development of newer antidepressant medications and
mood-stabilizing drugs has improved the treatment of depression in children.
Medication may be useful when a child:
Has severe symptoms that likely won't respond to psychotherapy alone
Doesn't have convenient or timely access to psychotherapy
Has a psychosis or a bipolar disorder
Has chronic or recurring depression
It's generally best for a child to keep taking the medication for several months after
symptoms of depression go away. This reduces the risk of recurrence.
Some research indicates a link between antidepressants and increased suicidal
thoughts and behaviors in children being treated with these drugs. As a result, in
October 2004, the Food and Drug Administration strengthened warnings about
antidepressant use in kids - not to prevent their use but to encourage doctors to
carefully weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing them.
An important part of treating depression in young people is educating the child and
family members about the illness and its treatment.
Provided by the Mayo Clinic.
Signs and symptoms of depression in kids:
Depression is more difficult to diagnose in children because many behaviors
associated with depression can also be normal in children. In evaluating a child for
depression, a therapist considers the number, duration and severity of signs and
symptoms. Considerations in evaluating the child is dependent on many factors.
CHILD'S AGE AND LEVEL OF DEVELOPMENT
Preschool
Listless - dull senses
Decreased interest in playing
Cries easily and more often than usual
Temper tantrums
Elementary school
Listless and moody
More irritable than usual
Looks sad
Easily discouraged
Complains of boredom
More distant with friends and family
Difficulty with schoolwork
Talks about death
Teenager
Always tired
Drops out of favorite activities
Low self-esteem
Has more arguments with parents and teachers
Refuses to do chores or homework
Engages in harmful behavior, such as cutting himself or herself
Has suicidal thoughts
Provided by the Mayo Clinic
What is the most effective treatment of depression in children?
Many years ago, doctors didn't believe that children could experience depression. But
mental health experts now know that depression is as common in kids as it is in
adults. Early detection and treatment of depression in children is important.
Treatment of depression in children may include psychotherapy and antidepressant
medications. Opinions vary as to which form of treatment should be tried first. But a
growing body of evidence indicates that for most children the best approach is a
combination of both.
Studies show that a form of psychotherapy called short-term cognitive behavior therapy
relieves symptoms of depression in many kids. Children who are depressed often have
an unhealthy, negative view of themselves and their experiences. Cognitive behavior
therapy helps children develop a healthier, more positive view. Research suggests that
this type of therapy can be faster and more effective than other types of therapy in some
kids.
Even when symptoms of depression go away, a therapist may recommend that a child
continue psychotherapy for a time. This may further develop and enhance the child's
coping skills - reducing the risk that depression will recur.
Medication also can help. The development of newer antidepressant medications and
mood-stabilizing drugs has improved the treatment of depression in children.
Medication may be useful when a child:
Has severe symptoms that likely won't respond to psychotherapy alone
Doesn't have convenient or timely access to psychotherapy
Has a psychosis or a bipolar disorder
Has chronic or recurring depression
It's generally best for a child to keep taking the medication for several months after
symptoms of depression go away. This reduces the risk of recurrence.
Some research indicates a link between antidepressants and increased suicidal
thoughts and behaviors in children being treated with these drugs. As a result, in
October 2004, the Food and Drug Administration strengthened warnings about
antidepressant use in kids - not to prevent their use but to encourage doctors to
carefully weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing them.
An important part of treating depression in young people is educating the child and
family members about the illness and its treatment.
Provided by the Mayo Clinic.
Signs and symptoms of depression in kids:
Depression is more difficult to diagnose in children because many behaviors
associated with depression can also be normal in children. In evaluating a child for
depression, a therapist considers the number, duration and severity of signs and
symptoms. Considerations in evaluating the child is dependent on many factors.
CHILD'S AGE AND LEVEL OF DEVELOPMENT
Preschool
Listless - dull senses
Decreased interest in playing
Cries easily and more often than usual
Temper tantrums
Elementary school
Listless and moody
More irritable than usual
Looks sad
Easily discouraged
Complains of boredom
More distant with friends and family
Difficulty with schoolwork
Talks about death
Teenager
Always tired
Drops out of favorite activities
Low self-esteem
Has more arguments with parents and teachers
Refuses to do chores or homework
Engages in harmful behavior, such as cutting himself or herself
Has suicidal thoughts
Provided by the Mayo Clinic
| The information provided on these pages are intended as a educational public service. New studies often change our understanding of how to diagnose and treat these illnesses and direct contact with the appropriate, licensed mental health professional prior to treatment is always recommended. |
| Additional Disorders Common in Children and Adolescents Self-injury/Mutilization Conduct Disorder Obsessive/Compulsive Bi-polar Disorder |
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| Depression in Children |
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