Explore Treatment Options Through Depression Treatment Programs For Kids
Experts don't know exactly what causes depression, but it can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Kids with depression may struggle in school, display chronic irritability and sadness, and isolate themselves from others. A depression treatment program can help parents treat their kids' depression. These are four treatment options that you can explore through a depression treatment program for kids:
1. Talk Therapy
Talk therapy is one of the best treatments for depression. Older kids may be ideal candidates for this treatment. In talk therapy, kids will have the opportunity to open up about things that bother them in a safe and supportive space. Kids can also learn tools from modalities such as dialectical behavioral therapy. Kids can learn to identify their emotions and practice coping skills, such as deep breathing, to modulate their emotional states.
2. Alternative Therapies
Some kids are too young to benefit from talk therapy. Younger kids who experience depression may benefit from the introduction of play and art therapy. These types of therapy give kids alternative means to express themselves. Drawing a picture can help kids express difficult feelings that they can't articulate in words. Play therapy can allow kids to act out their feelings with the help of a trained children's therapist. Play therapy can also be used to help kids learn appropriate ways to handle their feelings in various situations.
3. Children's Psychiatry
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in treating mental illnesses. They are the ones who can prescribe antidepressants and other psychiatric medications when appropriate. Kids' brains are still developing, which is why it's important to approach medication carefully. Children's psychiatrists are trained to treat young patients who may be at greater risk of developing side effects due to psychiatric medications. A child psychiatrist can help your child find the right medication to ease the symptoms of their depression safely and effectively.
4. Medication Adjustments
Antidepressants can relieve many of the symptoms of depression, such as feelings of despair and a lack of interest. However, it can take some trial and error to find the medication that works best for your child. Your child's psychiatrist will meet with your family periodically to make adjustments to your child's medication regimen as necessary. Your psychiatrist can adjust your child's medication dose to ensure that they find relief. If and when your child is ready to cease medication, a child psychiatrist can also help them wean off their antidepressants.
Contact a local depression treatment program for kids to learn more.
