Thus, frequent monitoring and ongoing treatment is often needed. Prevention Early identification and appropriate treatment are the keys to prevention of depressive episodes. The longer kids go untreated, the longer the episode and the more difficult the depression becomes to treat. It is very important to teach kids about early warning signs such as deterioration of school performance, losing concentration, having trouble sleeping, and losing interest in previously enjoyed activities. Although Fassler asserts his belief that parents are not responsible for depression in children, he does contend that stressful life events can increase the risk of developing depression in those children biologically predisposed to the illness.
Caregivers can help improve a child's resiliency, trust, and self-esteem.
Caregivers should strive to provide a sense of stability, foster honest communication, practice balanced discipline with positive feedback, avoid overprotection, teach children how to deal with frustration and disappointment, and get them involved in activities that use and support their inborn abilities and talents. Although research into depression among children and adolescents has been historically limited, there has been an increased focus at the federal level during the last two years, especially on issues of medication. The administration wants drug manufacturers to fund research into the effectiveness of medication being used by significant numbers of children, even if applications are not being specifically sought for child usage. Currently, the government is funding a half-dozen intensive pharmacological study sites around the country. Recognizing NAMI and other advocacy groups, Fassler insisted that the voices of our members are critical and that we must continue to advocate for research, public awareness, and access to appropriate and effective treatment for childhood disorders.