Childhood depression
Tamminen, T.
Duodecim; Laaketieteellinen Aikakauskirja 126(6): 627-633
2010
ISSN/ISBN: 0012-7183 PMID: 20597313 Document Number: 645429
Childhood depression is an unfortunately common, underdiagnosed, undertreated and, owing to suicide risk, a life-threatening disorder. Early-onset depression will often recur or become chronic. Depression is generated as a result of the interaction of genetic and neurobiological susceptibility and stress caused by environmental and life events, with the child's ability to control his/her emotions becoming distorted. The necessary measures consist of acute phase treatment, follow-up care and maintenance therapy, and follow-up should be continued until adulthood. While child protection procedures are occasionally unavoidable, they do not abolish the need for treatment of depressive state.