From what I know, regarding the treatment of young individuals suffering from depression, physicians/psychiatrists are cautious about the use of medications due to higher risks of side-effects, including suicidal thoughts, that can result. This suggests it might be all the more useful to consider an opinion that includes genetic testing for drug effectiveness for a full picture of what one's options may be presently and in the future. I have had depression and anxiety issues my whole life, not diagnosed until much later in life at the age of 50, and I cannot imagine my life now without pharmacological aid, but it is a complicated matter when considering drugs, especially potential dependence on some, for youth. With respect to the depression, it might also be useful to consider vitamin D, vitamin B supplements, and light therapy as concomitant adjuncts to antidepressants that might be used. Exercise and a healthy diet are important, too. I'm not aware of how cognitive behavioral therapy has been applied to younger individuals, but for anxiety it is very helpful to me in handling distressing thoughts. All things being said from my part, I am in general agreement that we should not stigmatize anyone for using medication in the treatment of chronic mental illness but rather seek all avenues that may yield success in the treatment of debilitating psychological pressures that may be rooted in our inherited traits as much as by environmental or other factors. Each person is deserving of the most careful and compassionate course of treatments and therapies that may prove useful and all the understanding that we can offer.

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