Young people can experience normal “blues” and everyday emotions that occur as develops. But many of them come to see me when the sadness becomes persistent and interferes with social activities, interests, school, and/or family life, which may indicate a depression.

What are the red flags?

There are a number of red flags that you and/or your child might notice including:

Being irritable or grumpy

Attention difficulties

Feeling guilty or worthless

Low self-steam, lack of confidence or increased sensitivity to rejection

Feel empty or unable to feel emotions (numb)

Not being interested in things that used to enjoy

Unable to relax or be more lethargic than usual

Social withdrawal

Fatigue and low energy

Changes in sleep either sleeplessness or excessive sleep

Change in appetite either increased or decreased

Physical complaints such as stomach aches, headaches

Thoughts about suicide or self-harming

Why this is happening?

Things that happen in a young person's life can be stressful and difficult to cope with such as:

Loss, serious illness or death of a loved one

Family difficulties such as parent’s divorce

School-related issues like bullying and pressure

A traumatic life event such as being abused or neglected, an outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Not all young people will be affected in the same way by these events, so it is not unusual for only one sibling to develop depression following a stressful family event, each person is unique and will cope with stressful situations in different ways.

In addition, some young people may also have anxiety and those older may misuse drugs or alcohol.

What is my approach?

As a first step, I will carry a thorough evaluation with you and/or your child. Screening questionnaires, physical examination or liaison with other professionals and school will be provided if you wish.

Once the condition(s) is identified, I will develop a personalized treatment plan jointly with you (and your child) based on personal needs. The treatment will include an integrated approach to achieve optimal wellbeing.

This can include:

Information and support to better understand and cope (psychoeducation)

Personal development and self-improvement

Person-centred talking therapy such as interpersonal therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, play therapy, social skills therapy

Tailored learning techniques and/or behaviour learning plan with school when appropriate

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy

Mind-body centre exercise to increase the relaxation response

Empower parents through positive parenting techniques

Family therapy

Promote a healthy lifestyle through exercise, diet and micronutrients

Sleep therapy

State-of-the-art medication when appropriate 

55 Harley Street, London W1G 8QR
Monday to Friday 8.30 am – 6 pm

Appointments: 020 3488 6250
Fax: 020 3745 0225
Email: secretary.drsala@londonpsychiatry.clinic

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