Anxiety & Depression

Approximately 1 in 20 American children and adolescents experience anxiety and/or depression which may impair healthy development and functioning. Suicide rates which are higher in this population, have doubled since 2007, becoming the second leading cause of death in youth. AAP guidelines recommend universal and targeted screening for anxiety and depression for identification and initiation of effective interventions. These activities serve as an important quality indicator in primary care. Validated screening tools are available and an increasing number of primary care practices utilize practice workflows to support the screening process.

 

Main Guideline  Algorithm

 

Handouts for Patient Families

 

Handouts for Clinicians

These guidelines are intended solely for the use of healthcare professionals who are licensed to practice medicine. This material is not intended to replace professional medical judgment, prescribing information or consultation with a medical professional. Any health care provider using this material acknowledges full responsibility for the medical care and treatment of patients. All health care providers are solely responsible for confirming the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, appropriateness and helpfulness of this material and making all medical, diagnostic or prescription decisions.

For questions about the guidelines, CLASP [at] Connecticutchildrens.org (email the CLASP team).