Depression in Children and Adolescents Presented by David Conrad SPED 592
Depression in Children and Adolescents
Presented by David ConradSPED 592
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Not just feeling the blues Was not until the 1970’s that diagnosis of
depression in children was widely accepted
Introduction
2.5% of children 8.5% of Adolescents 50% increase in girls over boys
U.S department of Health
29% of American Indian 22% of Hispanic Americans 18% of White Americans 17% of Asian Americans 15% of African Americans
Rates of depression differ with ethnicity
Genetics plays a role in depression Parent dramatically increases a child’s risk It is not known whether inherited genes
specifically cause depression or whether inherited cognitive styles lead to depression
Genetics
Negative self-perceptions make individuals vulnerable
Distortions Negative attributions Hopelessness Tendency to blame outcomes on external
forces
Cognitive Theory
Stressful life events Family size Minority status Physical and sexual abuse Diabetes increase risk 20% Immigrant children
*Bullying has also been noted as a risk factor in the development of depression for both the bullied and those who bully.
Other Factors
Depressed mood or irritable mood Markedly diminished interest Significant weight loss or gain Insomnia Psychomotor agitation or retardation Fatigue or loss of energy Feelings of worthlessness Diminished ability to concentrate Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
Symptoms of MDD
Can carry on into adulthood Poorer global functioning Poor Relationships with family Smaller social network Lesser life satisfaction Greater utilization of mental health services
Complications
Short-term psychotherapy◦ Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)◦ Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Medication◦ Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)◦ Fluoxetine (prozac)
Combination of the two
Management
Focus on positive less on correcting in regards to feedback
Rotate seating; this builds confidence and the feeling of importance in individuals
Give individual attention to the students Choose stand partners carefully, match
struggling students with more capable students
Application in the classroom
Make connection with students (notice changes in behaviors, personality, and motivation)
Communicate with other teachers that work with the student
Steer the student in the direction where they could get help
Implications in the classroom
Would not single out student Give more individual attention whenever
possible Make connection with family
Application with my students
Depression in Children and AdolescentsBy Noel M. Davis
The Journal of School Nursing
Resource