Adolescent
depression is a debilitating and chronic disorder, coming in as the most common
psychiatric disorder in the US. Depression can result in emotional suffering
and social and educational disruption. It is one of the most leading causes of
morbidity and mortality in the world today and places an extreme burden on
society. In recent years, researchers have recognized the importance of
focusing on early detection, prevention, and treatment for depression.
Depression
can occur with multiple signs and symptoms, which include emotional, physical,
and mental changes that can severely alter one’s personality. This is thought
to be the result of predisposition factors, which can be triggered by
environmental stressors. The best method to assess depression is the patient’s
self-report, along with the reports from family, friends, and other outside
sources. Suicide and suicidal ideation is a huge concern for those with
depression. It’s extremely important to ask patients whether they have ever had
any thoughts about ending their life, what exactly they have thought about
doing, and if they have ever actually tried it.
Treatment
for adolescents is limited. Trails have shown new pharmacologic and
psychotherapeutic methods that show promising interventions. It’s important to
help the family and adolescent understand the symptoms of the disorder, and to
provide coping mechanisms the help with day to day problems. Treatment therapy
includes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which alter dysfunctional
neurotransmitter systems. Cognitive behavioral therapy, which monitors and
changes dysfunctional ways of thinking. And interpersonal therapy, which
improves interpersonal skills and problem solving abilities.
Depression
in adolescence is a strong predictor is recurrent depression in adulthood and
long-term functional impairment, which is why measures should be taken to help
in all ways possible. Follow-up care should always be performed.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1070798/
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