Approximately 5% of adolescents are affected by depression.Children and adolescents suffering from symptoms of depression can be treated with medication.It is important to note that the research and available information regarding treating depression in children and adolescents is growing, yet limited as compared to adults.Before starting a course of treatment for your teen, you should talk to a medication expert.
Step 1: Know what the risks are.
There are risks involved in giving antidepressants to children and adolescents because they were designed and tested on adults.The long-term effects of antidepressants on the adolescent brain are not tested in a full body of research.There are concerns that antidepressants may interfere with normal brain development in regards to how the brain regulates stress and emotion.
Step 2: Be aware of suicidal symptoms.
The FDA warned about increased suicidal thoughts and behavior when it came to the use of SSRI for children and adolescents.According to the FDA, some individuals can have this effect.If you notice signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors from your child, you should immediately seek help.Changes to dosage and the first three months of use increase the risk of suicide.Don't wait for things to blow over or return to normal; suicide is serious and should be treated seriously.Seek help immediately.Talking with the adolescent, taking him or her to the Emergency Department, or contacting the police are some of the things that may be included in this.Alert the child's therapist as soon as possible.With the risk of suicide, family history is important.Ask if there is a history of suicide or depression in the family.If the teen has a history of suicidal thoughts, ask.There are warning signs of suicide.
Step 3: Which antidepressants are approved for adolescents?
The FDA in the United States stopped short of making a decision about the use of SSRIs in adolescents and children due to limited treatments for children with serious depression.Two antidepressants were approved by the FDA.fluoxetine is prescribed to children aged eight and older.Those 12 and older are prescribed Escitalopram.Off-label medication can be prescribed to treat depression in teens.A medical doctor may use his or her judgement to prescribe a drug.Many types of medications can be used off-label for both children and adults.
Step 4: You can see a medication expert.
The child will see a prescriber to discuss their medication use.A full evaluation of a child's mental health should be performed by a doctor who is experienced in that field.Information about the child's medical and emotional history should be gathered prior to your appointment.Bring up any family history of mental health issues with the prescriber.Mention any drug allergies or sensitivities.
Step 5: You should make an appointment with a therapist.
Depression can be treated with therapy.Teens will respond to therapy without the aid of medication.Therapy can help determine the severity of the depression, as well as help the teen deal with negative thoughts.Therapy should be included in treatment for long-term effects if the child is not currently seeing a therapist.A combination of therapy and medication has shown to be the most effective way to treat serious depression in adolescents.You can check out How to Choose a Therapist.
Step 6: Take care of medication use.
Have your doctor keep an eye on your medication use.You should make regular appointments to check in.Discuss any side-effects with your doctor.If the teen experiences any major mood swings, suicidal thoughts, nervousness, or sleeplessness while on medication, your prescriber should be notified.
Step 7: Before ending medication, consult with an expert.
Don't take the teen off the medication without consulting the prescriber first.Abruptly stopping use can cause withdrawal symptoms.Discuss the changes with your prescriber and find the best course of action to minimize the risks.
Step 8: Dosage is something to Familiarize yourself with.
Children should start on the smallest dose to protect against overdose.If the teen is prescribed medication, it's a good idea to monitor it.Only as directed by the prescriber.You can either give the pills to the child or watch to make sure the correct dose is taken.
Step 9: At school, give medication.
Make sure the teen goes to the nurse for the medication when they are at school.The school nurse can make sure the adolescent takes their full dose.Alert the school that the teen is taking medication and make sure it isn't shared with others.The safest way to keep the medication is with the school nurse.
Step 10: Side effects should be monitored at home.
Keep an eye out for any changes in the teen's behavior after starting medication.Minor changes in your child can be noted.If you notice an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior, call your prescriber.
Step 11: Help the teen cope.
Help the teen make changes to bolster treatment.Outside of therapy and medication, the teen can develop practices and skills to better cope with depression.Teens can know that they are participating in their own healing.Encourage the adolescent to exercise.Participation in a sport can include basketball, soccer, track, volleyball, or dance.The teen may enjoy going to the gym, hiking, or taking the dog for a walk.Exercise is essential to mental and physical health.The teen should have an outlet for his emotions.The teen is drawn to something that helps sort out their thoughts and feelings.Video games don't count.
Step 12: Allow the teen to get enough sleep.
Teens need plenty of sleep.Children and adolescents need up to 9 hours of sleep each night.Don't encourage your teen to stay up late at night, but to be well rested each day.If the teen is sleepy, talk to your therapist or prescriber.How to Deal With Teenage Insomnia is a book for dealing with sleep problems.