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- Anju Sawni, MD*
- Cora Collette Breuner, MD, MPH†
- *Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine/Children's Hospital of Michigan, Detroit, MI.
- †Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine Division, Adjunct Associate Professor, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle Children's Hospital University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
Author Disclosure
Drs Sawni and Breuner have disclosed no financial relationships relevant to this article. This commentary does contain a discussion of an unapproved/investigative use of a commercial product/device.
- CAM:
- complementary and alternative medicine
- EFAs:
- essential fatty acids
- SJW:
- St John's Wort
Introduction
The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has increased dramatically in the pediatric population in the United States. (1) Concerns regarding adverse effects, cultural and personal reluctance, and unknown consequences of long-term use of pharmacologic treatments for depression, sleep disorders, and substance abuse, make many parents and adolescents uncomfortable; thus, they seek treatments that are “more natural” and “safer.” Medication as the first line of treatment generally is not recommended to treat mild depression. Sleep disorders in children often are related to the child’s environment (chaotic home life, anxiety, poor sleep hygiene, etc). Promoting a healthy mind, body, and spirit in children is important in developing emotional stability. Achieving this goal involves good nutrition, exercise, a healthy environment, proper sleep hygiene, and supportive family, friends, and community. Integration of CAM therapies such as mind-body therapies (meditation, yoga, self-hypnosis, relaxation), herbs and supplements, and massage may be helpful as well.
Depression
Depression affects a large number of children and adolescents. Prevalence rates for depression range from 1% to 2% of prepubertal children to 3% to 8% of adolescents. (2) Despite scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of psychopharmacologic intervention, the use of antidepressants has received negative publicity and is not easily accepted by many parents. Medication as the first line of treatment generally is not used to treat mild depression; thus, some CAM therapies may provide effective alternatives for treatment of mild depression. Children, adolescents, and young adults are using CAM to treat depression. (1)(3)(4)
Lifestyle Therapies
A child’s diet is the foundation for the structure and function of the developing brain. (5) Adequate nutrients are essential for optimal production of neurotransmitters that affect mood, …
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