About Depression

Depression is a medical condition that can affect children, teens and adults in a variety of ways. One of the first things that many parents notice is a negative change in their child's mood. Children may be sad or angry for long periods of time, may experience aches and pains, fatigue and weight changes. Some emotional symptoms include a lack of self-esteem, sensitivity to criticism, anxiety and a lack of interest in hobbies and friends. In extreme cases, depression may also lead to thoughts of death and suicide. Sometimes depression can happen as a result of stress, illness or family problems. At other times, depression can occur as a result of an imbalance in neurochemicals. Information about national prevalence rates of depression is included in our overview of mental disorders in U.S. teens. Many people are not aware that children and teens are susceptible to depression. Unfortunately, some children who are depressed think their feelings are normal and never ask for help. Less than 40% of children and teens with a major depressive episode receive treatment.

Treatment

Treatment options for depression include counseling, social skills training and psychoeducation. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Family Therapy have been shown to be effective for the treatment of depression. 

CBT is a widely used and highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. Its efficacy has been well-established through numerous research studies and clinical trials. CBT helps individuals address their current negative thought patterns and behaviors. It encourages individuals to identify and challenge distorted or irrational thoughts and replace them with more rational and adaptive ones. CBT is a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. Therapists work closely with clients to set specific, achievable goals and develop strategies to reach them. This collaborative approach empowers individuals to take an active role in their treatment. CBT not only helps individuals manage their current symptoms but also provides them with tools to prevent relapse. By teaching clients how to recognize and address negative thought patterns and behaviors, they are able to build resilience against future challenges.

Family Therapy is an approach to psychotherapy that focuses on addressing issues and conflicts within the context of the family system. Individuals within the family are viewed as part of a larger family or relational system. It recognizes that individual problems often have systemic roots and that addressing these dynamics within the family can lead to positive outcomes. Family Therapy seeks to understand how each individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence and are influenced by others in the family. It also helps families identify the communication styles, power imbalances, and negative behavior cycles. By addressing these patterns, therapists can facilitate healthier ways for the family to relate to one another in a safe and structured environment for family members to express their concerns, feelings, and grievances. Therapists guide the family in resolving conflicts and finding mutually acceptable solutions.

My Approach

I use a gentle approach when treating children and teens with depression. I prefer using CBT and Family Therapy for the treatment of depression as I have found these to be most effective in my clinical experience. I begin therapy by involving the entire family in the session and providing a safe space for the family to express their concerns and anxieties. I assess the child's level of depression and issues that may be contributing or exacerbating the condition.  I offer parents information about depression and techniques to manage it at home. If needed, I will refer the child to a psychiatrist for medication. If a child begins medication I will evaluate the need for continued therapy. I typically encourage weekly therapy sessions until the most severe symptoms of depression have subsided.

Outcomes

After coming to therapy on a consistent basis, your child should show renewed interest in his/her former activities and hobbies. Children and teens emerging from depression may also begin to form new friendships and nurture old ones. Ideally, they will also begin to take an increased interest in their daily activities, find eating pleasurable again and their sleep habits should improve. There should be a reduction in moody and angry behavior as the depression subsides and parents should see an increase in self-esteem.