Step two involves obtaining a good evaluation. This evaluation of the child should be by a health or mental health professional. Diagnosis is based on a good clinical interview. There is no blood test for depression. Step three is treatment.
Many options are available.
This care can usually occur in an outpatient setting but some children may require hospitalization if the depression is severe or concerns about suicide are prominent. In addition to psychotherapy, some children may require antidepressant medications. This is not a decision to be made lightly. Medications should be used only in severe cases with physiologic symptoms or suicidality and only in conjunction with ongoing psychotherapy. We are very fortunate.