Prevention of Depression in At-Risk Adolescents

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Abstract
Depression is a common and episodic condition that is associated with difficulties in relationships, impaired school and work performance, and increased risk for substance abuse and suicide.1 Adolescent-onset depression is strongly associated with chronic and recurrent depression in adulthood,2,3 which is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality.4 Despite substantial progress in the treatment of adolescent depression (ie, acute response and remission rates are about 60% and 30%, respectively),5 only about 25% of depressed youth receive treatment6 and at least 20% develop recurrent, persistent, and chronic depression that is very difficult to treat.5,7 The serious developmental consequences of adolescent depression and the associated treatment challenges once it has developed underscore the need for programs aimed at prevention.8