Depression in children and young people

Quality statements

Statement 1 Children and young people with suspected depression have a diagnosis confirmed and recorded in their medical records.

Statement 2 Children and young people with depression are given information appropriate to their age about the diagnosis and their treatment options.

Statement 3 Children and young people with suspected severe depression and at high risk of suicide are assessed by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) professionals within a maximum of 24 hours of referral. If necessary, children and young people are provided with a safe place while waiting for the assessment.

Statement 4 Children and young people with suspected severe depression but not at high risk of suicide are assessed by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) professionals within a maximum of 2 weeks of referral.

Statement 5 Children and young people receiving treatment for depression have their health outcomes recorded at the beginning and end of each step in treatment.