What are the Key Features of Depressive Disorders in Pediatrics?
Depressive disorders in children and adolescents can present differently than in adults. The DSM-5 criteria for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) include a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in most activities, along with other symptoms such as significant weight change, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms must be present for at least two weeks and cause significant impairment in social, academic, or other important areas of functioning.
