A survey was conducted in a South London CAMHS before and after the publication and implementation of NICE guidelines of 2005 for the treatment of depression in children and adolescents. The results for 2006 indicate that 28% of cases were receiving medication without psychological therapy. Of those prescribed medication, 96% were receiving a prescription for fluoxetine. Of those receiving psychological therapy most received cognitive behaviour therapy whilst none received interpersonal therapy. Although 72% of cases were receiving medication with psychological therapy this falls short of the 100% expectation of the NICE guidelines. Other services are encouraged to survey young people receiving ant‐depressant medication against the NICE guidelines.

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