1. Parenting & Family

Medication Defined

Mental Health Terms Used in Treating Troubled Teens

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Definition: The term medication refers to psychotropic medications used therapeutically to treat a variety of emotional and behavioral problems in teens such as anxiety or attention deficit disorder. These drugs are composed of chemicals that work directly on the brain. For example, anti-depressant medications such as Prozac are often effective in treating various forms of depression in teens. 

Medications can only be prescribed and monitored by psychiatrists specially trained to work with troubled teens. In most cases the medications are used in addition to other therapies to achieve long-lasting positive results. Mental health professionals commonly refer to medications simply as 'meds'.

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