Overview of Depression and Anxiety in Youth and Their Treatment

Anyone working with children and families in Broward County

Depression and anxiety are the most common psychological disorders in youth. It is estimated that 3 million adolescents aged 12 to 17 in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in the past year, with clinically significant anxiety rates estimated at 25% among youth. Fortunately, there are numerous effective forms of treatment available for both depression and anxiety. However, detection and accurate diagnosis is required before successful intervention can be implemented. In this seminar, participants will be provided with a review of depression and anxiety in youth and their treatment. Topic areas to be covered include how each condition is recognized, diagnosed, and distinguished from other similar conditions. There will be a brief review of epidemiology, comorbidities (e.g., substance use), proposed etiological bases (e.g., putative biological and psychosocial causes, etc.), and treatment approaches. Special attention will be devoted to the variance in rates, symptom profiles, and treatment in the context of developmental, gender, and cultural diversity.