Sadness or discomfort that is severe or persistent enough to impair functioning or create significant suffering are characteristics of child depressive disorders. Clinical criteria are used for diagnosis. Antidepressants, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supportive therapy are used as treatments or a combination of these.
Depressive disorders in children and adolescents include:
- Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
- Major depression disorder
- Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia)
Treatment and management
- concurrent activities focused on the home and the classroom.
- Typically, psychotherapy in addition to medications for teenagers.
- Psychotherapy and, if needed, antidepressants for preadolescents.
The child’s direct therapy must be accompanied by appropriate family and school-directed interventions to support the child’s sustained functioning and offer suitable educational accommodations. In cases of acute crisis, short-term hospitalization can be required, particularly if suicidal behavior is present.
Learn the Symptoms of Depression
- feelings of hopelessness, emptiness, sadness, or tears.
- rage tantrums, impatience, or frustration—even about trivial issues.
- loss of enjoyment or interest in the majority of everyday activities, including sex, hobbies, and sports.
- sleeping excessively or too little.
- tiredness and low energy, making even simple chores more difficult.
- diminished hunger and weight reduction or heightened hunger and weight growth.
- Unaccounted-for physical issues include headaches or back discomfort.