Psychopharmacology Considerations for Children Aged under 6 Years

This article reviews the literature on the assessment of children under 6 years old for consideration of using psychopharmacology. Research suggests that childhood mental, behavioral, and developmental disorders begin early in life and, if untreated, may persist and affect multiple spheres of a child's functioning. Psychotherapeutic interventions should be considered first-line interventions for most mental health concerns in young children. Unfortunately, there are obstacles and limited access to psychotherapy for most families. Even when they do participate in evidence-based therapies, many children continue to be symptomatic, and medications need to be considered.