Adolescent depression is a growing concern in the U.S. A 2022 survey found that nearly 1 in 5 teens aged 12 to 17 experienced a major depressive episode (MDE) in the past year. Alarmingly, these numbers have been rising since 2009, notably increasing after the COVID-19 pandemic. The effects of depression in youth can be long-lasting, impacting their social life, education, and health far into the future.
A recent study published in PLOS Mental Health found that 47.5% of teens with MDE received some type of treatment over the past year. The treatment options varied: 39.1% saw a specialist, 30.5% got help at school, and 25% were prescribed medication. Telehealth is becoming more popular, with 34.5% of teens using it for mental health support.
Notably, geographical and demographic factors influenced treatment rates. Teens in rural areas were less likely to see a specialist than those in urban settings. The odds of receiving specialized care were 36% lower for those in non-metropolitan areas. Also, older teens were less likely to use school-based services than their younger peers.
Gender and race also played significant roles. Girls were more likely than boys to seek help, while Black adolescents were less likely to receive treatment compared to their White counterparts. Specifically, Black teens were 64% less likely to use school services and 59% less likely to see a specialist for their mental health needs. Similar trends were seen with Asian and Hispanic teens, who also faced barriers to receiving care.
Insurance status had a major impact on treatment access. Those with private or public insurance were more likely to receive both telehealth and medication compared to the uninsured. For instance, privately insured youth had more than three times the odds of accessing telehealth services compared to those without insurance.
The disparities highlighted in this study reflect ongoing challenges in providing equitable mental health care. The need for culturally competent services and better access in rural areas is crucial. Broader insurance coverage could also be key in reducing gaps in care.
This situation is alarming. In 2022, fewer than half of adolescents with MDE received appropriate treatment. Despite a growing conversation around mental health, access remains lopsided based on geography, race, and insurance status. To tackle these issues, we need strong policy changes and effective strategies to break down barriers to care.
For those interested in further reading, you can find the study and additional insights in the original PLOS article [here](https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1095061).
