According to a Sept. 13 Patriot-News article by Carolyn Kimmel, the effort has resulted in improved efforts to identify potential problems -- but the increased screenings haven't been accompanied by more efficient access to treatment:
Left untreated, mental health disorders in children and adolescents lead to higher rates of suicide, violence, school dropouts, family dysfunction, juvenile incarcerations, alcohol and other drug use, and unintentional injuries, the CDC reports. ...Providing at-risk youth to prompt treatment for teen depression is an essential step in ensuring that they have the best possible chance to overcome the obstacles that are preventing them from pursuing successful and satisfying lives.
Nationwide and locally, there is a shortage of child psychiatrists, which makes getting an immediate appointment a challenge. ...The severity of symptoms dictates how fast the process moves, said Launa Snyder, outpatient coordinator for Behavioral Health Services at Holy Spirit Hospital, the designated crisis intervention center for Cumberland and Perry counties.
"If someone is suicidal, that is taken tremendously seriously, and it may require a hospitalization," she said. "For someone who is not having suicidal thoughts, it can be a couple weeks before they get in to see a psychiatrist."
Labels: depression, mental_health, treatment_programs
Posted By: Aspen/CRC