Suggest Treatment For Depression In A Treenager

Brief Answer:
Explain in detail

Detailed Answer:
Hello

Thanks for asking from HCM

He is depressed and is 16 years old. Depression could be one reason for poor interest, lack of motivation, anhedonia (lack of interest in day to day routine). Due to these symptoms he might be refusing to go to school.

Best thing that can be done in proper treatment of depression. Medicines like SSRIs as Fluoxetine, Sertraline are used in treatment for depression in children. These medicines will help in increasing the mood and will increase in confidence.

If he is just refusing to go to school then some medicines like Amphetamines (adderall) can be tried. The medicine will help to improve motivation. Other drug like Modafinil is also useful in such symptoms. You have to consult a Psychiatrist for detailed prescription of drugs.

Try to talk with him in detail in empathetic manner. He is a child and need support at home. Try to enquire about his school, friends or any other stressor in his life. Some times children don't tell their problem directly instead they express in indirect manner like he is showing by refusing to go to school. Also try to find out if he is taking some drugs. Children at this age usually attract to drugs due to peer pressure, novelty seeking behaviour. Due to guilty they start behaving in abnormal manner.

I have tried to find out possible reasons but I would like to know his clinical symptoms in detail so that I can comment in proper diagnosis and treatment. If possible please explain in follow up question.

Thanks

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Brief Answer:
For some days if possible don't ask him for school

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

Only one session will no be sufficient to explore his doubts or any conflicts. After talking to him 2-3 times in next few days he will start explaining his problems if any. But his symptoms like he is going to blow up, he is not taking his life anymore etc points about depression. Group session at this stage will not work because he doesn't want to reveal anything. He will talk in some days. Till then provide him full support.

Diets rich in protein and carbs and low in fat will increase tryptophan in brain which will improve depressive symptoms. Omega 3 Fatty Acids soft gels are also helpful in depressive symptoms.

Consultation with a Psychologist will also help. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy Sessions prove very useful in depressive symptoms. There will be no need of medicines if CBT prove useful.

For some days if possible avoid asking him to school, home school will be a good option. Playing outdoor games help in building his confidence.

Thanks, you can ask again if you have more doubts.

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Brief Answer:
Treatment of depression

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

He has strong stressor in form of loss of close family members which resulted in hopelessness, uselessness or worthlessness. He is having anhedonia, poor social interaction, no interest in daily routine. All these symptoms can confirm his depression.

Bupropion is a drug that is used in mild to moderate anxiety and mild depression. More better drugs for depression are available which will help in early improvement. I have already mentioned SSRIs have good results. For his negative symptoms drugs like Amisulpiride will help. The drug is used in negative symptoms (like poor interaction, worthlessness). At this time I can say to that he need proper treatment from a psychologist (for CBT) and if no improvement with this then a psychiatrist for medicinal treatment.

Thanks, you can ask again if you have more doubts regarding his treatment.

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