Children And Teenage Depression

Depression is a relatively common condition, affecting approximately 2% of children and 7-9% of adolescents worldwide

. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that depression would be the number one cause of morbidity throughout the world in the 21st century (affecting over 20% of the population at one point during one's lifetime).

Major depression is a clinical illness, described in the psychiatric diagnostic guide as an episode lasting at least two weeks of experiencing depressive symptoms. Depressed mood or loss of interest is one of the main "must-have" criteria in diagnosing major depression.

Depression affects all socio-economic groups, and a genetic connection plays a strong role. A patient with one family member with depression has 16% higher chances of developing depression throughout life. Environmental stress also plays an important role in triggering a major depression episode.

Depressed children and teenagers may not be able to identify their exact mood and state they are in. Depression should be considered when a child or teenager reports they are bored,

or having trouble concentrating. Others can see objective restlessness, fatigue, irritability, decreased achievements at school and withdrawal from social activities.

Sometimes depression in young ages can manifest in other "medical" complaints such as nausea, pain, headaches or weakness. Like in adults, disturbed sleep patterns can be the only manifestation of major depression (general insomnia, trouble waking up or waking up too early).

Also like in adults, suicidal thoughts must always be ruled out, by direct questioning of the child/teenager. The treatment of depression in children and adolescents has developed tremendously during the past few years. Although large clinical trials testing the affect of anti-depressive medication (for example SSRI's) haven't lead to significant results,

one of the medications in the SSRI groups has been found to be safe and efficient in younger ages (Fluoxetine). The duration of treatment in children is controversial and is said to be best if taken for 6-9 months after full remission of the depressive symptoms.

This is as opposed to adults who usually require administration of the medications for longer periods of time (greater than 1.5-2 years).

Psychotherapy is probably one of the most important treatment options for depression in children and teenagers. Well-known methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy show great promise in treating these age groups.

In some cases, a combination of anti-depressants and psychotherapy achieves the best results. In any case it is important to consult a child psychiatrist before starting any treatment.

by: Maria Gonzales

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