Running Head: INCIDENCE AND PREVALENCE OF
Incidence and Prevalence of Depression in Children and Adolescents
Tina S.
February 8, 2011
Incidence and Prevalence of Depression in Children and Adolescents
Depression, What it Means
Depression is all too common in people. In fact the majority of people will either experience depression themselves or know someone that has had depression. However, it is important to note that depression is a serious medical condition that requires medical attention. Depression (major depressive disorders) often co-occurs with other psychiatric and substance related disorders. (Austin & Boyd) According the NIMH, depression in children has only been taken seriously in the past two decades. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the causes, symptoms, incidence and prevalence of depression in children and adolescents on a provincial (Saskatchewan), national (Canada), and global level.
Signs and Symptoms
Anhedonia, decreased energy levels, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, insomnia or too much sleep, thoughts of suicide or death, and changes in eating patterns causing weight gain or loss are symptoms of depression when they interfere with daily life, including relationships, work and family. As well, children are likely to have more anxiety symptoms, and somatic symptoms. In adolescents, their mood is more likely to be irritable than sad. (Austin & Boyd) These symptoms must occupy the majority of the day and last a minimum 2 weeks to be considered symptoms of depression. NIMH states that a “depressed child may pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that the parent may die,” and that “older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, be negative, grouchy, and feel misunderstood.” (NIMH) NIMH also states that depression in children may last one year or more.
Incidence and Prevalence of Childhood and Adolescent Depression
The... [continues]
Incidence and Prevalence of Depression in Children and Adolescents
Tina S.
February 8, 2011
Incidence and Prevalence of Depression in Children and Adolescents
Depression, What it Means
Depression is all too common in people. In fact the majority of people will either experience depression themselves or know someone that has had depression. However, it is important to note that depression is a serious medical condition that requires medical attention. Depression (major depressive disorders) often co-occurs with other psychiatric and substance related disorders. (Austin & Boyd) According the NIMH, depression in children has only been taken seriously in the past two decades. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the causes, symptoms, incidence and prevalence of depression in children and adolescents on a provincial (Saskatchewan), national (Canada), and global level.
Signs and Symptoms
Anhedonia, decreased energy levels, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, insomnia or too much sleep, thoughts of suicide or death, and changes in eating patterns causing weight gain or loss are symptoms of depression when they interfere with daily life, including relationships, work and family. As well, children are likely to have more anxiety symptoms, and somatic symptoms. In adolescents, their mood is more likely to be irritable than sad. (Austin & Boyd) These symptoms must occupy the majority of the day and last a minimum 2 weeks to be considered symptoms of depression. NIMH states that a “depressed child may pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that the parent may die,” and that “older children may sulk, get into trouble at school, be negative, grouchy, and feel misunderstood.” (NIMH) NIMH also states that depression in children may last one year or more.
Incidence and Prevalence of Childhood and Adolescent Depression
The... [continues]
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