It is known that depression can manifest as early as 3 years old, and that the condition can give way to future disorders. Because medication is inappropriate and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) is ineffective at such a young age, finding treatment options has been challenging.

However, recent studies conducted by NARSAD Independent Investigator Grantee Joan L. Luby, MD and colleagues at Washington University have found that a form of therapy called Parent Child Interaction Therapy-Emotion Development (PCIT-ED) is helpful in treating toddler depression. It involves building on the parent-child relationship by teaching positive play techniques, and aids the parent to help the child recognize emotions in self and others, as well as cope with these emotions.

HIKE for Mental Heath distributes eighty percent of net funds raised to organizations like the Brain & Behavior Reseach Foundation to support scientific research to prevent, treat, and cure mental illnesses.

Click here for more information on this promising research.