01.Introduction
Depression is a serious condition and you should discuss all available treatments with your doctor.
Questions you can ask about the treatment you're offered:
- Why have you chosen this treatment?
- What are the most important signs and symptoms that this diagnosis is based on?
- Are there any other medical problems that may be contributing?
- Could my child be worried about something, and is there anything we could do about that?
- How will we know if the child is better or worse (what measure is used)?
- What is the goal here? Make sure everyone knows what they want the outcome of treatment to be.
If drugs are prescribed, ask:
- Is there another option?
- Please explain the side effects and any withdrawal effects.
- Could there be a danger of suicide?
- Will these drugs interact with other medication?
This information was provided by the Department of Psychological Medicine, Women & Children's Hospital, Adelaide, and Beyondblue: the national depression initiative.
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