Depression Among Children and Adolescents
Recent research by Columbia University and the Children's Health Fund found as many as 10,000 displaced children across the Gulf are now suffering from clinically diagnosed depression -- a 400 percent increase from before the storm. Two experts from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center who are available to speak on the topic include:
Sanjeev Pathak, MD, child psychiatrist who specializes in depression, pharmacogenetics of psychotropic agents and anxiety. Dr. Pathak has lead several multi-center studies looking at several anti-depressants, as well as empirical support (cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy and CBT for adolescents) and their affect on children and adolescents with depression. His studies also may someday determine the correct dosages for children with different severities of depression and how these medications decrease suicidal and self-mutilating behaviors.
Daniel Nelson, MD, child psychiatrist and a recognized authority in counseling children and families who have experienced trauma -- from natural and man-made disasters to abuse. After the September 11th attacks in New York City, Nelson, along with other psychiatrists and psychologists, provided assistance to many victims' families.
In addition, he supervised the Family Notification Center after the Oklahoma City bombing, which he designed to provide comprehensive psychological support to minimize the effects of trauma in that city. Dr. Nelson, who directs the inpatient child psychiatric unit at Cincinnati Children's, also provides training and education in response to trauma. He is a member of the Professional Advisory Board, National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement.
