Maroun - thematic analysis of depressed adolescents’ views and experiences of SSRI antidepressants alongside psychological therapies

Question 1

aim

Answer 1

This study qualitatively explored adolescents’ views and experiences of SSRIs within their accounts of engaging in a psychological therapy for depression, particularly focusing on meanings they attached to medication-us

Question 2

Sample

Answer 2

semi-structured interviews conducted 12-months post-treatment with 12 adolescents aged 13-18
Interviews analysed using thematic analysis

Question 3

results

Answer 3

Four themes were identified: ‘a perceived threat to autonomy’, ‘a sign of severity’, ‘a support, not a solution’, and ‘an ongoing process of trial and error’

Question 4

Conclusion

Answer 4

This study highlights the value of bringing adolescents’ voices into the broader debate on the use of antidepressants in their age group and in the development of future guidelines. Future implications for research and clinical practice are discussed.