Teens and depression: What parents need to know about treatment

Depression is a treatable condition. With treatment, teens can recover and live a full and active life. There is a continuum of depression along a spectrum of mild, moderate and severe.  A teen can move along this continuum depending on their response to treatment. Without treatment depression can worsen. The factors contributing to and the treatment plan for each teen’s depression are unique. The treatment plan is developed in collaboration with the teen, family and caregivers and providers. Every plan is tailored to fit the unique needs of the teen and is consistently monitored to make sure it continues to be the best path. Treatment for depression There are different types of treatment available for teens struggling with depression. The type of treatment plan depends on the severity of their symptoms. Teens with mild depression have few symptoms and are able to function in many areas of their life. Treatment might include meeting individually with a mental health professional for brief treatment (8 to 12 sessions) to increase and actively engage in healthy coping skills, and reaching out to trusted adults and peers for support. Exercise and physical activity can have a positive impact on mild depression. Teens experiencing moderate depression have more symptoms, which occur consistently over time. Also, there is a noticeable and ongoing negative impact on several areas of their life such as school, relationships with peers and at home. Treatment might include a combin...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: All posts Diseases & conditions parenting adolescent depression depression treatment teen. teen depression Source Type: news