Depressive disorders are common in children and adolescents, impair psychosocial functioning, and are often accompanied by comorbid

psychopathology.

HPI: DG, a 16-year-old presents to the PMHNP’s office with his parents today with reports of 2 weeks of irritability and depressed mood. According to the patient he has difficulty concentrating and he has lost 5 pounds during that time without trying. He endorses anergia, and anhedonia – doesn’t enjoy playing tennis anymore. He states that he feels as if he has always been depressed and he feels hopeless about ever feeling better. He denies suicidal ideation or hallucinations. He is sleeping well and doing well in school though his teachers have noticed that he does not seem to be able to concentrate as well as he had previously.

Assessment: The PMHNP gives a diagnosis of Major Depressive disorder single episode moderate.

Include in your discussion:

What would you recommend for treatment? Be specific in your answer and support your choice with a neurobiological rationale. Do not go into detail about the disorder at the expense of detail regarding the current treatment of the patient.

Include any and all considerations that accompany your choice of the treatment plan.

What education must be included by the PMHNP?

Requirements: 250 words