Treating depression in teens with diabetes follows a similar path as that applied to adults. But there are some special considerations.
Research has shown that the best strategy for combating depression in teens is often a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Let’s consider the most important aspects of both approaches.
Antidepressant medication
If you suspect that your teen is struggling with depression, you first need to discuss their symptoms with your healthcare provider to obtain a correct diagnosis. If your doctor finds sufficient evidence to suspect depression, he or she may prescribe one of several antidepressants that have been shown to combat depression.
However, in recent years there has been a growing concern that some anti-depressant medications may prompt suicidal thoughts or behavior in children and adolescents. The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in October 2004 stating that an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior does exist with use of these medications for young people up to age 25. But more recent studies have concluded that the benefits of antidepressant medications likely outweigh the risks to children and adolescents with major depression and anxiety disorders.
There are times when an antidepressant medication may not be necessary. The depressive symptoms may be due to a physical problem or an interaction with other medications your teen could be taking. That is why you must always get a professional opinion before requesting medication.
Psychotherapy
There are many therapeutic approaches to treating depression. One approach that has been shown to be effective is called cognitive-behavioral therapy. This type of therapy explores how your teen’s thoughts, feelings and actions might be contributing to his or her depression. For example, if your child feels overwhelmed with the tasks of managing their diabetes or they believe that nothing they do will allow them to control their blood glucose, they might begin to feel hopeless and become less disciplined in their diabetes management.
Getting therapy from a mental health professional who is also familiar with diabetes can be very beneficial. He or she may be able to help your teen develop new ways of coping with the stresses of diabetes management, self-esteem issues, peer and social pressures, family dynamics and other diabetes-related concerns.
The combination of anti-depressant medication and counseling can be a powerful one toward eliminating depression and better management of your teen’s diabetes.
Do you think your teen may be depressed? Take this quick, easy assessment to find out.
Sources:
Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers. National Institutes of Mental Health. Accessed August 7, 2009. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health/antidepressant-medications-for-children-and-adolescents-information-for-parents-and-caregivers.shtml
Bridge, JA, PhD; Iyengar, S, PhD; Salary, CB, MD; Barbe RP, MD; Birmaher, B, MD; Pincus, HA, MD; Ren, L, PhD; Brent, DA, MD. "Clinical Response and Risk for Reported Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts in Pediatric Antidepressant Treatment." Jama 297:1683-1696.
