Problems We Treat

Major Depressive Disorder

Depression is characterized by sadness and depressed mood, anger, irritability and a loss of interest in pleasurable activities.  Unlike the sadness that results when a when a pet or even a loved one dies, depression is a persistent feeling that doesn’t always have an easily identifiable trigger. Children with depression may typically feel sad or irritable more days than not, for at least two weeks. Symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) include, but are not limited to: diminished interest in pleasurable activities, difficulty concentrating, significant change in appetite and/or weight, changes in sleeping habits, or thoughts of suicide.

Persistent Depressive Disorder

Persistent Depressive Disorder is also characterized by depressed mood, however it differs from MDD in that the depressed mood is longer lasting, but less severe than MDD. Children with persistent depressive disorder experience chronic sadness or irritability more days than not for at least one year.