Facts about childhood depression

Depression is a common illness in teenagers and is readily treatable with drugs, therapy, or -- most often -- a combination. Dr. Stuart Goldman, codirector of the mood disorder program at Children's Hospital, said children never should be placed on medication without a careful psychiatric evaluation and regular psychotherapy.

Parents whose children start taking antidepressants should watch for changes that may signal worsening depression or increased risk of suicide, including anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, impulsivity, uncontrollable restlessness and mania, according to the US Food and Drug Administration.

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