When your child begins taking depression medication, you may wonder who you should tell about it.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children starting medication for depression should be most closely monitored during the initial weeks of treatment. They should be watched for signs of irritability, despondence (feelings of rejection and hopelessness), worsening depression and anxiety symptoms, and suicidal thoughts or impulses.
This means that anyone caring for, or spending a significant amount of time with your child, should be aware of her depression medication plan, and which signs and symptoms to watch out for.
Additionally, all of your child's healthcare and depression treatment providers should be aware of all medications that she is taking. This includes any physicians (e.g., pediatrician, psychiatrist), and/or psychologists, counselors, or social workers who are working with your child.
It is also important to let your child's school nurse know that she is taking medications, for two reasons: First, the nurse should be dispensing any medication to your child during her school day. Second, in case of an emergency, it is necessary to be aware of any underlying conditions, like major depression, along with any medications that your child may be taking.
It is also a good idea to let your child's teacher know about her medication and her depression. Your child's teacher will then have the ability to observe and report any behavioral changes that may occur as a result of her medication.
Other important family members or caregivers should be aware of your child's medication as well. Having as many responsible and vigilant adults monitoring your child for physical and emotional changes will ensure that any serious side effects, although rare, will be promptly reported. Furthermore, telling others has the potential to provide you and your child with much needed support.
When it comes to professional providers, like physicians, psychologists, nurses and teachers, confidentiality and privacy laws exist to protect your child's private health information. However, you may have to explicitly indicate your wishes for privacy with friends and family members if it is a concern.
Sources:
American Academy of Pediatrics. Advice for Treating Children Antidepressants. Accessed: June 19, 2011. http://aapnews.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/e2004146v1
National Institutes on Mental Health. Antidepressant Medications for Children and Adolescents: Information for Parents and Caregivers. Accessed: June 19, 2011. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/child-and-adolescent-mental-health/antidepressant-medications-for-children-and-adolescents-information-for-parents-and-caregivers.shtml
