Childhood depression

Abstract

Depression is one of the most-common psychiatric diagnoses among children and adolescents. Depression in children presents in many ways and can include decreased self-esteem, reduced capacity for fun, irritable and low mood, social withdrawal, impaired relationship building and worsening school performance. If undiagnosed and untreated, it confers an increased risk of substance misuse and self-harm. An accurate diagnosis of a child suspected of having depression requires input from multiple sources, and relies on a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment. Throughout the assessment and treatment process it is vital to remain vigilant for any child safeguarding issues. This article aims to describe the primary care assessment, diagnosis and management of this condition.