Children’s Depression Rating Scale (CDRS)

The Children’s Depression Rating Scale (CDRS) is a clinical tool used by healthcare providers to measure the severity of depression in children. It involves evaluating symptoms such as mood, social interactions, sleep, appetite, and physical complaints through interviews and observations. Each symptom is scored based on its intensity and frequency, resulting in an overall score that helps determine how severe a child's depression is. The CDRS aids in diagnosing depression, monitoring progress over time, and assessing the effectiveness of treatment. It ensures that assessments are structured, objective, and consistent across different patients and providers.