However in the last couple of years studies have been conducted with findings that show that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are safe and effective for severe and persistent depression in young people. Medication should however, only be used in chronic or recurrent episodes and with psychotherapy. It is helpful to explain that therapy is for people who are feeling emotional hurts and pains and need an objective listener. Most teens feel a sense of relief after entering therapy and find it useful to be able to share personal feelings and secrets. Individual therapists come from a number of different theoretical perspectives, including psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral.
Most therapies are helpful to reduce present family tension and to enhance communication.
Therapy can be very helpful for the teenager and the family. Depression in teenagers in the United States has grown through the years. One out of four people today will have a problem with major depression. This number is too high. Suicide is also very high and this issue needs to be addressed.