The Youth Mood Clinic: an innovative service for the treatment of severe and complex depression. (April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rice, Simon M; Halperin, Steve; Cahill, Sara; Cranston, Ingrid; Phelan, Mark; Hetrick, Sarah E; Blaikie, Simon; Edwards, Jane; Koutsogiannis, John; Davey, Christopher G
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 25:Number 2(2017:Apr.)
• Page Start: 112
• Page End: 116
• Publication Date: 2017-04
• Subjects: early intervention -- youth -- depression -- suicide -- public health; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856216689002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objective: Depression is the leading cause of disability for Australians from late adolescence through mid-adulthood, and effective treatments can positively impact subsequent life course trajectories. A treatment model for the management of complex youth depression, characterised by symptom severity, multi-morbidity and ongoing suicidality is presented. Conclusions: The Youth Mood Clinic (YMC) provides multidisciplinary, team-based treatment for young people aged 15–25 years. The YMC model utilises a phased treatment approach, drawing on elements of cognitive and interpersonal psychotherapy embedded within case management and psychiatry review. Particular attention is given to developmental factors, engagement, assessment, suicide risk, caregiver input and pharmacotherapy. Key tasks of the YMC treatment phases are outlined, reflecting initial stages, recovery planning and treatment, continuation, consolidation and future planning.