Should anti-depressants (ssris, snris) ever be given to children?

Yes: Many products are not approved by fda, but depending on the diagnosis and severity, if assessed well by a psychiatrist, one can use them with caution and close monotoring.

Absolutely: As long as prescribed under the care of a pediatrician or a child psychiatrist. Most will be used off-label, but that is the bane of child psychiatry.Little folks can get profoundly depressed, too.Best wishes.

SSRI: Some are FDA approved for young kids, such as Prozac (fluoxetine). Many are used off-label, for depression & anxiety, under supervision by Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist.