An adolescent is diagnosed with major depression, and the mental health specialist has prescribed fluoxetine. What other treatment is important to protect against suicide risk?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) should be considered as an important adjunct to medication treatment in adolescents with major depression, particularly with a history of suicidal ideation or behavior. CBT has been shown to reduce suicidal thoughts and behaviors by addressing maladaptive thought patterns and changing behaviors that exacerbate depression. While hospitalization may be appropriate in some cases, it is not always necessary and should be reserved for those who are at high risk for suicide or who do not respond to outpatient treatment. The addition of risperidone therapy may be appropriate in some cases, but it is not indicated as first-line treatment for major depression and should be reserved for individuals with psychotic symptoms or severe agitation. Family therapy may also be helpful in supporting the adolescent's treatment and reducing family conflict, but it is not as directly related to suicide risk reduction as CBT.

An Adolescent Is Diagnosed with Major Depression, and the Mental