Clinical guidelines for depressive disorders in childhood and adolescence |
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Authors: | Park R J Goodyer I M |
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Institution: | (1) Developmental Psychiatry Section Department of Psychiatry University of Cambridge Douglas House, 18b Trumpington Road Cambridge CB2 2AH, UK e-mail: rjp42@cam.ac.uk, GB |
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Abstract: | Major depressive and dysthymic disorders are recurrent and sometimes persistent unipolar mood disorders, which often present
in childhood and adolescence. Depressive episodes may increase in severity and duration with recurrence and are associated
with substantial morbidity and risk of suicide. The role of child and adolescent mental health services in early intervention
and management is thus of major importance. This paper draws together current research evidence and common clinical practice,
in guidelines for the specialist management of depressive disorders in childhood and adolescence. Both psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy
have been found to be beneficial for the acute treatment of children and adolescents with depressive disorders. Based on current
evidence, psychotherapy may be the first treatment for most depressed youngsters, but antidepressants should be considered
for those with severe depression. All patients need continuation therapy, and some will need maintenance treatment. Evidence
supporting the efficacy of psychological and psychopharmacological treatments are reviewed. An integration of approaches is
suggested as a guideline for treatment planning.
Accepted: 15 February 2000 |
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Keywords: | Child/adolescent depression – treatment – psychotherapy – antidepressant medication |
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