Depressive Disorders

Depressive Disorders

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.