Medications
One frequent medication is a class of medication called the Selective Serotonin
Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s). Other medications are also used to treat depression.
Please note that such medications should be used under the guidance of a child psychiatrist,
primary care provider, or other qualified medical personnel. Research has shown
that low levels of serotonin, one of the brain’s chemicals, can contribute to depression.
SSRI’s help increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. Examples of SSRI’s include:
Prozac, Zoloft, Paxil, Celexa and Luvox. Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors
(SNRI’s): These medications act on the brain chemicals serotonin and norepinepherine,
which play an important role in mood regulation. SNRI’s are used to treat depression
by increasing the amount of these chemicals in the brain thereby increasing appropriate
mood regulation. Examples of SNRI’s include: Effexor and Cymbalta. Some possible
medication side effects: Heartburn, nausea, poor appitite, hyperkinesis (restlessness),
agitation, tremor, drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhea/constipation, changes in sleep
(either too much or too little), headaches, upset stomach, or dry mouth may occur.
Other side effects may occur. Side effects should be reported to the provider managing
the medication regimen. Attention: On October 15, 2004, the FDA released a black
box label warning physicians and patients that some antidepressant medications MAY
increase the risk of suicidal thinking and/or behavior in a small proportion of
children and adolescents, especially during the early phases of treatment. While
there is no evidence that antidepressants increase the risk of suicide, there is
evidence that depression increases the risk of suicide. Children and adolescents
taking SSRIs should be monitored to assess for a possible increase in suicidal thoughts
or behaviors. For more information, visit http://www.parentsmedguide.org/parentsmedguide.htm.
What can I do to help myself if I have Depression?
Youth should be encouraged to tell a parent, school counselor, teacher, or other
trusted adults about the changes in feelings, behaviors, and physiology associated
with depression.
What can I do to help my friend with Depression?
The first thing to do is to help your friend talk with their family and seek a trusted
medical and/or mental health professional to provide evaluation and support. Praise
your friend for their honesty and reassure them that the symptoms are signs that
they need to talk more with an adult and reassure them that depression and other
concerns are treatable. As a friend, your understanding, patience, and encouragement
are invaluable! Also try to keep your friend in the “social loop” and try to encourage
in small steps in participating in fun activities. If your friend talks about suicide,
report this to his or her therapist or parent immediately. If you believe that your
friend may hurt him or herself, let their parent know, call 911, and assist them
in seeking immediate help.
Implications at school
Children who are struggling with depression may find it difficult to concentrate
on class material, directions, or homework. Because they are preoccupied with negative
thoughts, and sometimes the physical discomfort of depression, it is difficult for
them to learn. Children with severe depression may also have difficulty getting
to school, as they lack motivation and energy and may have difficulty getting up
in the morning. Children with depression also frequently isolate themselves from
their peers and may be at risk for a loss of social support or an increase in bullying/teasing
because of this. These children will likely need additional support from teachers
and councilors to succeed.
For more information about TeleKidcare services for youth depression and adjustment
concerns, please contact
Eve-Lynn Nelson, Ph.D.
enelson2@kumc.edu
(913) 588-2413
For more information, please contact:
Kathy Davis, MSEd, PhD
kdavis2@kumc.edu
(913) 588-6305