Depression

Depression is a serious matter that should never be pushed aside as a "phase". Depression is a medical condition that requires treatment with therapy and medication. WebMD.com describes the symptoms and signs of teenagers

A large number of research trials have shown the effectiveness of depression medications in relieving the symptoms of teen depression. One key recent study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, reviewed three different approaches to treating adolescents with moderate to severe depression:

One approach was using the antidepressant medication Prozac, which is approved by the FDA for use with pediatric patients ages 8-18.

The second treatment was using cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, to help the teen recognize and change negative patterns of thinking that may increase symptoms of depression.

The third approach was a combination of medication and CBT.

At the end of the 12-week study, researchers found that nearly three out of every four patients who received the combination treatment -- depression medication and psychotherapy -- significantly improved. More than 60% of the kids who took Prozac alone improved. But the study confirmed that combination treatment was nearly twice as effective in relieving depression as psychotherapy alone.

Depression is a major contributing factor to teenage suicide. Each year 500,000 teens attempt suicide, and 5,000 succeed. Addressing and treating a major underlying cause for teenage suicide is the most effective way to prevent it.

See www.webmd.com for addtional information.