How to Use an Antidepressant for a Depressed Child

Kids aren't immune to depression. In fact, it's been estimated that up to 8 percent of kids and adolescents are affected with the disease. But like adults, kids with depression can be successfully treated. While the Food and Drug Administration has issued a "black box" label warning on certain antidepressants (such as Paxil and Zoloft) after it was found these drugs can increase suicidal thoughts in some children using them, recent research suggests that the benefits of these drugs outweigh the risks.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Get your child evaluated if you suspect he's depressed. Only a trained medical professional, like a psychiatrist, can make the proper diagnosis. He or she can also make the best assessment of whether or not medication is needed.

2. Consider psychotherapy. In one National Institute of Health study, kids using a combination of therapy and medications saw the most improvement in their depression.

3. Have your child monitored. Your child should be under close medical supervision while taking antidepressants. Call your doctor immediately if your child demonstrates any suicidal behavior or becomes so sleepless, moody or nervous that you're concerned.

4. Don't stop antidepressants abruptly. If your child is improving, talk to his doctor about whether medication is still needed and, if not, how to wean him off it. Stopping the medication suddenly can cause withdrawal side effects or even a relapse.