In 2019, child and adolescent mental health was declared a national emergency. The American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and the Children’s Hospital Association collectively said child and adolescent mental health is a national emergency. In fact, across the U.S. more than 5.3 million adolescents have been diagnosed with mental or behavioral health conditions. Approximately 20% have undiagnosed mental health disorders.
Females are more likely to have depression (10.9% vs 6% in males). In fact, anxiety is also more common in adolescent females than males (20.1% vs 12.3%). Adolescents who report unfavorable childhood experiences, come from lower socioeconomic status homes, or identify with minority groups are most at risk. And the third most common mental illness in this population is behavior or conduct disorder. Males are more likely to be diagnosed with this than females (8.2% vs 4.3%).
Once diagnosed, you should work with them and their caregivers in determining an acceptable path back to good mental health. Unfortunately, the FDA had applied a boxed warning to antidepressants concerning suicidality. Ever since, a lot of people have been hesitant to have children and adolescents take these medications. As their pharmacist, you need to stress that their children are at far higher risk of suicidal behaviors when depressed than when on medication. Careful monitoring of their behavior and offering support ensures the best outcomes.
Early intervention is critical with mental health disorders amongst children and adolescents. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication can truly help the youth see how great their young years can truly be.
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