Two-year outcome of children treated for depression.
Fifty-four children and adolescents (age 8-17) were assessed two years after a clinical intervention trial of cognitive-behavioural vs. non-focused treatment for depression. Eleven (20.4%) subjects fulfilled criteria for depression, while 21 (38.9%) reported significant depressive symptoms during the previous year. Seventeen young people (31.5%) had a psychiatric disorder (including depression). Overall, the sample maintained the improvement since the termination of treatment, without detecting specific treatment effects. Presence of depression at two-year follow-up was best predicted by self-esteem ratings before and after treatment, and co-morbidity at post-treatment. Depression in young life carries a high risk of recurrence, despite initial remission. Continuation or preventative treatment for young people at risk of relapse needs development and evaluation.
Vostanis
P
P
University of Birmingham, Parkview Clinic, Moseley, United Kingdom.
Feehan
C
C
Grattan
E
E
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D015897:Comorbidity; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012649:Self Concept; D016896:Treatment Outcome