Background Although considered clinically effective, there is little
systematic research confirming the use of Individual Psychodynamic
Psychotherapy or Family Therapy as treatments for depression in children
and young adolescents. Aims A clinical trial assessed the effectiveness
of these two forms of psychotherapy in treating moderate and severe
depression in this age group. Methods A randomised control trial was
conducted with 72 patients aged 9-15 years allocated to one of two
treatment groups. Results Significant reductions in disorder rates were
seen for both Individual Therapy and Family Therapy. A total of 74.3%
of cases were no longer clinically depressed following Individual
Therapy and 75.7% of cases were no longer clinically depressed
following Family Therapy. This included cases of Dysthymia and “Double
Depression” (co-existing Major Depressive Disorder and Dysthymia).
There was also an overall reduction in co-morbid conditions across the
study. The changes in both treatment groups were persistent and there
was ongoing improvement. At follow up six months after treatment had
ended, 100% of cases in the Individual Therapy group, and 81% of cases
in the Family Therapy group were no longer clinically depressed.
Conclusions This study provides evidence supporting the use of focused
forms of both Individual Psychodynamic Therapy and Family Therapy for
moderate to severe depression in children and young adolescents
