I think it begs the question - if one recognizes the signs of depression early on in children before puberty (i.e., through the behavioral issues you describe), and has confidence in the diagnosis through ruling out other behavioral conditions (e.g., ADHD,e tc.), is there any management that is effective in reducing long-term symptoms?
In other words, if one catches depression early in childhood and begins appropriate early interventions, can this positively shape brain development and reduce the magnitude of depression later in life?
I think about physical diseases where early vs. delayed intervention can shape long term outcomes (e.g., addressing childhood scoliosis vs. not managing it will have significant effects on the adult vertebral anatomy), and wondered if the same can hold true for brain circuitry and neuroendocrine development.
Hey James. Check out this study if you don't already know it. Childhood depression is a mean son of a bitch, and very difficult to get rid of for good.
Recovery rates are close to 100%, but recurrence rates after a first episode is 72% and every episode increases the risk there will also be a 3. 4. And 5. episode.
It is difficult to actually tell the families that after recovery, they are most likely having to go through it again in a few years. But as Laura says, it seems like you can reduce the risk of relapse with healthy supportive measures. Routines, sleep, diet, relationships etc. All of the good stuff.
Great question! Yes - early intervention helps minimize long term effects of any child mental/emotional health problems while also continuing to shape and mold neurological connections, neuroendocrine connections, and even stress responses.
Great article!
I think it begs the question - if one recognizes the signs of depression early on in children before puberty (i.e., through the behavioral issues you describe), and has confidence in the diagnosis through ruling out other behavioral conditions (e.g., ADHD,e tc.), is there any management that is effective in reducing long-term symptoms?
In other words, if one catches depression early in childhood and begins appropriate early interventions, can this positively shape brain development and reduce the magnitude of depression later in life?
I think about physical diseases where early vs. delayed intervention can shape long term outcomes (e.g., addressing childhood scoliosis vs. not managing it will have significant effects on the adult vertebral anatomy), and wondered if the same can hold true for brain circuitry and neuroendocrine development.
Hey James. Check out this study if you don't already know it. Childhood depression is a mean son of a bitch, and very difficult to get rid of for good.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4975998/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
Recovery rates are close to 100%, but recurrence rates after a first episode is 72% and every episode increases the risk there will also be a 3. 4. And 5. episode.
It is difficult to actually tell the families that after recovery, they are most likely having to go through it again in a few years. But as Laura says, it seems like you can reduce the risk of relapse with healthy supportive measures. Routines, sleep, diet, relationships etc. All of the good stuff.
Thank you for this resource, Morten. I plan to continue to look into this as well!
Great question! Yes - early intervention helps minimize long term effects of any child mental/emotional health problems while also continuing to shape and mold neurological connections, neuroendocrine connections, and even stress responses.
Great article!!!!
Thank you!!