Pediatric depressive disorders: management priorities in primary care

Abstract

Depression is a common disorder that affects many youth. Although these youth are often managed in primary care, there is very little research or clinical guidance for primary care professionals to identify and manage depression in their pediatric patients. This review will examine the current evidence for the identification and management of pediatric depression in primary care. Several recent primary studies and knowledge syntheses support the identification and management of adolescent depression in primary care with less evidence addressing depression in prepubertal patients. Research evidence from specialty care confirms the efficacy of antidepressants and psychotherapies in adolescent depression. However, there is the possible risk of rare but serious adverse events, as outlined in the Food and Drug Administration's warning, when using antidepressants to treat these youth. Pediatric depression is often managed by primary care professionals. Several recent studies and reviews have been conducted to provide clinical guidance for the identification and management of depression in primary care.