Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Lack, Caleb W. PhD
Green, Amy L. BA

Department of Behavioral Sciences, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, AR
River Valley Psychological Services, Russellville, AR

Corresponding author: Caleb W. Lack, PhD, Department of Behavioral Sciences, Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, AR 728010.

E-mail:[email protected]

Journal of Pediatric Nursing 24(1):p 13-25, February 2009.

Childhood mood disorders such as major depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disorder have been found to be highly prevalent among children and adolescents. The emotional and behavioral dysfunction associated with these mood disorders can cause impairments across areas of functioning, including academic and social arenas. This article reviews the course, possible causes, assessment, and treatment of this group of disorders in youth and concludes by examining the implications for nurses and other health care providers of youth with mood disorders.