MIMS Magazine Weekly 1992 Jun; 66-67
Cite as:
I. Kolvin, "How is depression in childhood and adolescence diagnosed and treated?!", MIMS Magazine Weekly, 2 June 1992, pp. 66-67,
Abstract:
Depression in childhood used to be though uncommon, but recent research indicates that at least 2 to 4 per cent of teenagers are depressed. Major depression in childhood can be diagnosed using criteria similar to those used in adults.
The main diagnostic symptom is dysphoric mood - a pathological degree of sadness. Other key symptoms include:
- loss of energy, interest and appetite
- weeping, suicidal thoughts, social withdrawal
- loss of pleasure in usual activities
- a sense of pessimism and hopelessness
- a sense of not being loved
- loss of concentration.