Know the warning signs!
There's a startling increase in major depression among teens in the U.S.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services, more than three million adolescents aged 12-17 reported at least one major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year, and more than two million reported severe depression that impeded their daily functioning. (An MDE is defined as a period of at least two weeks of low mood that is present in most situations. Symptoms include low self-esteem, loss of interest in normally enjoyed activities, and problems with sleep, energy and concentration.)
Despite the rise in teen depression, a study from the National Surveys on Drug Use and Health reported that there has not been a corresponding increase in mental health treatment for this age group. This is an indication there is a growing number of young people who are under treated or not treated at all for their symptoms.
The most common risk for depression is being female. According to the department of Health and Human Services, rates of depression among girls ages 12-17 in 2015 were more than double that of boys. A study suggests girls may be exposed to more risk factors. Cyber-bullying is
far more prevalent amongst girls than boys. Some studies show girls use mobile phones with texting applications more frequently and intensively. There is evidence in some areas that online bullying are affecting kids' mental health as young as 5th grade.
Authors of teen depression trends study concluded that "the growing number of depressed adolescents and young adults who do not receive any mental health treatment of their symptoms calls for renewed outreach efforts, especially in school and college health and counseling services and pediatric practices where many of the untreated adolescents and young adults with depression may be detected and managed."
For budget crunched schools it is difficult to fund and deploy more mental health resources. The American Academy of Pediatrics is now recommending depression screening for all young people ages 11-21. Because symptoms of depression are often recognizable by teachers, parents or even physicians, this move may be key to better identifying kids who suffer and getting treatment.
If you know of someone you believe may be depressed and in need of help, here are a few resources:
-Dial 2-1-1 for Infoline or visit their website at www.211ct.org
-Community Health Resources-877-884-3571
-InterCommunity (IC) 860-569-5900
-Wheeler Clinic-860-747-8719
-Ellington Youth Services, Diane Lasher-Penti 860-870-3130