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Overcoming Teen Depression A Guide…
11/01/10
Overcoming Teen Depression: A Guide for Parents
Kaufman, Miriam, B.S.C.N., M.D., FRCP. Buffalo, N.Y.: Firefly Books, 2001. Paperback, 262 pages.
In Overcoming Teen Depression: A Guide for Parents, Miriam Kaufman, M.D., gives a comprehensive overview of depressive illness, emphasizing the medical components. In addition, the book is full of case histories that demonstrate the various manifestations of clinical depression. Dr. Kaufman covers treatment options, including a good explanation of alternative treatments.
All adolescents experience a wide range of emotions and behaviors. Often moodiness and experimentation are viewed as merely typical teen angst. Some teens, however, exceed ordinary erratic temperament and conduct. Having a “bad day” may lengthen to months of irritability or sadness. Sleep and appetite may increase or decrease. Concentration is limited, and grades drop. Hobbies, interests, or pleasurable activities may become boring. If these signs persist into several weeks, the teen may be suffering from clinical depression.
The book contains information and support for parents who experience trying times when their child is going through a course of clinical depression or bipolar illness. It is a good source not only for parents, but also for family members, friends, teachers, and counselors. It could be quite helpful to a teen who is trying to understand his or her diagnosis—preferably after recuperation, when the teen has more energy and is able to concentrate.
The tone of the book is hopeful, emphasizing that the parents can help their teens get better by seeking a diagnosis, finding appropriate treatment, and providing support in many ways.
Overcoming Teen Depression was published in 2001 and thus newer medications now commonly used in treating depression are, of course, not mentioned.. But it has a lot of useful information that could have been helpful. I do wish that Dr. Kaufman had more strongly emphasized the genetics of mood disorders. I think that when they have this information, patients, family members, and friends are better able to embrace the disorders as scientific phenomena—causing less blame and stigma in families.
By Sallie Mink
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