An Update on Depression in Children and Adolescents

Article Abstract

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, at any one time, about 2% of school-aged children and 4% of adolescents appear to experience depression. Pediatric depression often results in physical, emotional, and social impairment, which may persist into adulthood. Recognition and effective treatment of pediatric depression may improve long-term outcomes, but only a minority of youths who meet the criteria for this disorder are diagnosed and treated.

What do practicing psychiatrists need to know about using genetic tests?