[Identifying and managing depression in children and adolescents]

Depression in children and adolescents is a major mental health and public health issue. Often under-diagnosed because its clinical expression differs from that observed in adults, it needs to be identified early to limit the negative consequences on the child's emotional, social and academic development. Treatment is based on a multidisciplinary approach combining individual psychotherapy, sometimes accompanied by family therapy and, if necessary, pharmacological treatment with antidepressants. Actions can also be taken on the educational, social and school fronts to support the child and his or her parents. Early intervention helps prevent suicide, which remains a major cause of death in adolescence.