The Unseen Battle of Adolescent Depression in Canada

The review is based on the most recent evidence and clinical practice recommendations from Canada, the US, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Key topics:

• 
  Diagnosis — irritability and sad or depressed mood, fatigue, sleep disturbance, decreased enjoyment of activities and difficulty concentrating in adolescents may indicate depression
• Screening — although more research about universal screening for adolescent depression in primary care is needed, it may be appropriate in some cases. Clinicians should use a validated screening tool and recognize that screening does not replace a diagnostic assessment
• Management — a multifaceted approach is required and may include addressing health behaviors, psychotherapy, and medication, and addressing underlying stressors

More than 60% of Adolescents Suffer from Major Depressive Disorder

More than 60% of adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) also have at least one other mental health condition, such as anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and learning disorders. These can make it more challenging to diagnose and treat depression, as some symptoms overlap and physical health conditions can mimic symptoms of depression.

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“Depression is an increasingly common but treatable condition among adolescents. Primary care physicians and pediatricians are well positioned to support the assessment and first-line management of depression in this group, helping patients to regain their health and function,” write the authors.

They state that future research is needed to address unanswered questions, including the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on depression, whether universal screening improves outcomes, and how to personalize depression treatment best to optimize effectiveness.

Reference :

1. Diagnosis and management of depression in adolescents – (https://www.cmaj.ca/content/195/21/E739)

Source: Eurekalert