2026 Pediatric Update (On-Demand)-Dr. Olian Asessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents

Dr. Olian Asessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Taylor Olian summarized the 2023 AACAP guideline on assessment and treatment of depression in children and adolescents. She emphasized that pediatric depression is common, serious, recurrent, and often under-treated, with significant suicide risk and limited access to mental health specialists. The guideline focuses on major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder, excluding prevention and very young children. Key points include age-sensitive symptom recognition, structured screening in adolescents, multi-informant diagnostic evaluation, and careful assessment for medical, psychiatric, and substance-related causes. Comorbidity is common, so treatment plans should address all coexisting conditions. First-line treatment includes psychotherapy such as CBT or IPT, with SSRIs like fluoxetine and escitalopram for moderate to severe cases, often combined for best results. Ongoing measurement-based care, safety monitoring, family involvement, and coordination with schools and social services are essential.

Keywords

pediatric depression

AACAP guideline

adolescent screening

psychotherapy and SSRIs

suicide risk