Depression im Kindes- und Jugendalter

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders in adolescence. It can occur as early as preschool age. However, it is often recognized too late, and several months to years may pass before appropriate treatment is provided. The psychosocial and medical consequences for those affected can be severe. Timely diagnosis and effective methods of treatment and prevention can counteract these consequences and additionally offer the opportunity to sustainably strengthen the individual resources of young people with depression and their families. This book provides well-founded and practical information based on current scientific findings about characteristic age-dependent manifestations, common comorbidities, various diagnostic methods, the causes, and the course of depression in children and adolescents. Based on the S3 guidelines, evidence-based treatment methods, their combination and practical application, as well as key conditions for psycho- and pharmacotherapy, are comprehensively presented. Behavioral, psychodynamic, systemic, and interpersonal treatment methods, support in acute crises and suicidal situations, as well as online-supported therapy are central topics. All content is illustrated with case and practical examples. Additionally, the book describes effective prevention approaches for various target and age groups and illustrates concrete ways to implement preventive measures in different settings, such as in schools and families.