Who is affected by childhood and adolescent depression

Childhood and adolescent depression is a growing problem that often goes unrecognized and untreated. Depression affects young people from all races, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds.¹ Before puberty, depression occurs equally in boys and girls. However, between the ages of 15 and 18, girls are twice as likely to experience depression as boys.² Depression lasts an average of 8 months in children and adolescents. Even with treatment, at least half of those children and adolescents with depression suffer another depression episode.³

Some children and adolescents are at higher risk for developing depression, such as those who:

• Have a family history of depression.
• Are preadolescent boys (younger than 13).
• Are girls in the early stages of puberty.
• Have another health or mental disorder, such as an anxiety disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• Have substance abuse (such as alcohol, drugs, or nicotine) problems.
• Complain of physical symptoms without any physical problems (such as somatization disorder).
• Have been physically or sexually abused.
• Have had a previous episode of depression.
• Have experienced a recent trauma, such as a death in the family or problems with peers.
• Live in a home environment that has family conflict.
• Have a serious or long-term illness, such as diabetes or cancer.
• Are uncertain of their sexual orientation.