A diagnosis of depression will be based on the symptoms and the duration of the symptoms. Also, the doctor will try to determine how the symptoms impact the teen's behaviour and life.
How is teen depression treated?
Teen depression is a treatable medical condition.Combination treatment is most effective and may include:
- Depression medications to relieve symptoms
- Counselling to help teens learn new coping skills.
Medications that are prescribed often include antidepressants which are known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).
Counselling or therapy may consist of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). With CBT, professionals help teens learn how to change destructive ways of thinking.
If a teenager is suffering from severe depression, the doctor may admit the teen to hospital for observation and treatment.
Read more about teen depression and suicide here