New warnings on antidepressants for children and adolescents highlight the need for appropriate treatments for depression, says a national psychiatric drug expert at The Menninger Clinic.
“Taking an antidepressant comes with risks. When deciding whether an antidepressant is right for a son or daughter, parents should discuss with the physician the possible alternatives, including psychotherapy. Research by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that combining talk therapy and an antidepressant is the most effective treatment for teens battling depression,” said Joyce Davidson, M.D., staff psychiatrist at The Menninger Clinic and assistant professor in the Menninger Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at Baylor College of Medicine.
“At The Menninger Clinic, we carefully evaluate youth and use only the necessary treatments that are likely to benefit a particular adolescent. If we believe an antidepressant is warranted, we provide a written fact sheet and discuss why the medication would be beneficial, the side effects and the importance of vigilant monitoring of the teenager’s response to medication. The patient and family make the choice.”
The FDA hearings in October 2003 and earlier in September confirmed that depression among children and adolescents is a serious mental health issue in America. It is estimated that 11 million young Americans took antidepressants in 2002. Equally important is the risk of suicide. Studies show that half of teens with depression will attempt suicide; 7 percent will die by suicide.
Dr. Davidson explains that adolescents with severe depression are prone to suicide because they tend to act impulsively and lack the lessons and perspective of life experiences to cope with romantic breakups and other difficulties. Substance abuse also raises the risk of suicide in adolescents.
Early intervention can increase recovery from depression and substance abuse, decreasing the risk of suicide. Dr. Davidson urges parents to become familiar with the symptoms of depression and to seek treatment for their son or daughter when they are concerned.
“Depression is a greater risk to teens than taking an antidepressant for treatment,” she said. “The important element to add to treatment is close monitoring from the physician or psychiatrist in charge. Here in our hospital, our patients have severe symptoms of depression and other psychiatric disorders. Our staff can observe, support, educate and provide a safe environment for these youth as they progress in treatment over a number of weeks.”
For youth who are currently taking an antidepressant, Dr. Davidson said they should not stop taking the medication without the involvement of their physician or psychiatrist.
Signs of depressive disorders in children & adolescents