Youth mental health is a pressing issue that often goes untreated, but in this episode of Pediatric Meltdown, Dr. Lia Gaggino and Dr. Rich Dopp shed light on effective strategies for addressing this challenge. Dr. Dopp’s expertise in treating adolescents with depressive disorders shines through as he discusses the use of SSRIs and the significance of understanding family history. The episode also highlights the importance of gathering information from multiple sources and utilizing various measures and questionnaires to assess depression in younger children. From recognizing the benefits of exercise in improving mood to discussing the importance of tailored treatment plans, they provide valuable insights for both healthcare professionals and caregivers. With practical advice and a personalized approach, this episode equips listeners with valuable insights to navigate the complexities of youth mental health.
[00:33 -14:52] The Rising Prevalence of Depression in Children and Adolescents
- The increasing incidence of major depressive episodes among youth
- The potential underestimation of depression rates in certain situations
- The lack of access to treatment for the majority of affected youth
- The impact of social media, sleep deprivation, traumatic experiences, and negative political climates on depression rates
[14:53 – 26:17] The Importance of Sleep for Mood
- Sleep as a vital factor for mood regulation
- Lack of sleep as a symptom of depression
- Sleep disturbance and its impact on mental health
- Strategies to support better sleep: removing electronic devices, reducing overhead lights, guided meditation, and breathing exercises
[26:18 – 43:30] Tailoring Therapy to Meet Individual Needs
- Identifying goals is an important first step in tailoring therapy to meet individual needs
- Social skills and problem solving exercises can lead to early gains in functioning
- Therapy can be tailored to an individual’s interests and hobbies
- Changes in functioning can be easier to identify and foster than changes in feelings when treating depression
[43:31 – 56:11] Benefits and Effectiveness of SSRIs
- Proven efficacy in treating depression and reducing symptoms
- Effective in reducing anxiety symptoms in some individuals
- Can help regulate sleep patterns and improve sleep quality
- May enhance cognitive function and improve concentration
[56:12 – 01:02:25] Closing segment Takeaway
Links to resources mentioned on the show
AAP Guidelines for Adolescent Depression Glad PC 1 https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/141/3/e20174081/37626/Guidelines-for-Adolescent-Depression-in-Primary?autologincheck=redirected
AAP Guidelines for Adolescent Depression Glad PC 2. https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/120/5/e1313/71096/Guidelines-for-Adolescent-Depression-in-Primary
AACAP Facts for Families – Depression https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/The-Depressed-Child-004.aspx
Other episodes you may like:
25 Kids and Sleep: Why Getting Enough Sleep Matters
12 Therapy for Children: Collaborating with Our Mental Health Colleagues
Key quotes for Twitter:
“I tend to encourage doctors in training to find ways to introduce themselves to their patients. So that our opening question with a stranger isn’t so tell me while you’re here.”…Dr. Rich Dopp
“Youth who are at risk for mood cycling more often will present with ADHD in early childhood that either did or did not respond well to standard treatments of ADHD.”…Dr. Rich Dopp
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Pediatric Meltdown was listed as a Top 20 Pediatric Podcast on FeedSpot.
If you’d like to connect with me, you can Tap the “What Are Your Thoughts” button at the top of the notes or you can find me on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or email me at [email protected] or [email protected]. To learn more about me visit https://www.medicalbhs.com/
LOVE WHAT YOU HEARD? Leave us a 5-star review so we can continue to provide you with great content. Share this episode and help people know more about children’s health and well-being.
