Major Depressive Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Release Date: March 2009

This topic page summarizes the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendations on screening for depression in children and adolescents.
Summary of Recommendations / Supporting Documents

This recommendation updates the USPSTF's 2002 recommendation on Screening for Depression with respect to children and adolescents. Go to http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/uspsaddepr.htm to view the updated recommendation for adults.

Summary of Recommendations

The USPSTF recommends screening of adolescents (12-18 years of age) for major depressive disorder (MDD) when systems are in place to ensure accurate diagnosis, psychotherapy (cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal), and follow-up.
Grade: B recommendation.
The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening of children (7-11 years of age).
Grade: I statement.

Top of Page

Supporting Documents

Screening for Major Depressive Disorder in Children and Adolescents, March 2009

Recommendation Statement (PDF File, 180 KB; PDF Help)

Article (PDF File, 240 KB; PDF Help)

Evidence Synthesis (PDF File, 3 MB; PDF Help)

Clinical Summary (PDF File, 54 KB; PDF Help)

Top of Page

Current as of March 2009

Internet Citation:

Screening for Major Depressive Disorder in Children and Adolescents, Topic Page. March 2009. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/uspschdepr.htm

Treatment Works: Get Help for Depression and Anxiety

Many Americans suffer from mental conditions such as depression and anxiety. Studies show these health problems and illnesses affect about 1 in 5 Americans. A tough situation such as a natural disaster, the loss of a loved one, or financial distress can trigger or increase depression and anxiety.

Do You Know the Signs?

Someone who is depressed has feelings of sadness or anxiety that last for weeks at a time. He or she may also experience:

Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness
Irritability, restlessness
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
Fatigue and decreased energy
Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
Overeating, or appetite loss
Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment

Effective Treatment Exists

People who suffer from depression or anxiety should seek help as early as possible. Most adults see an improvement in their symptoms when treated with antidepressant drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Unfortunately, many never seek treatment. New research suggests that racial minorities and people with less than a high school education may be less likely to be diagnosed for depression. It is often difficult for depressed or anxious people to believe that things can get better. Try not to let hopelessness or shame stop you or a friend from getting medical help. Take action.

Where to Find Help

If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately.

Call 911
Visit a nearby emergency department or your health care provider's office
Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4TTY (4889) to talk to a trained counselor

Improving mental health is part of CDC's overall public health mission. For more research on depression, anxiety, and other chronic conditions, read Preventing Chronic Disease. Specific articles on depression and anxiety include: