When is the risk of suicide or self-harm at the highest while taking antidepressants?
The highest risk of suicidal thinking and behavior occurs: • During the first few months of treatment with an antidepressant • When the dosage is increased or decreased Parents and caregivers should closely observe children on a daily basis during these transition periods. Remain observant for worrisome changes for the whole time your child takes antidepressants. But don’t stop antidepressant treatment without the guidance of your child’s health care professional. Suddenly stopping an antidepressant may cause serious withdrawal-type symptoms. How can medication meant to help treat depression and other illnesses lead to suicidal behavior in children? Researchers speculate about a variety of potential reasons. In some cases, children may have bipolar disorder. Treating these children with antidepressants could cause an episode of mania — extreme emotional highs — that leads to risky, impulsive behavior and possibly self-harm. Antidepressants may also trigger anxiety, agitation, hostility
