Many teenagers reporting symptoms of depression

Conclusion This large cohort study highlights high levels of depressive symptoms in children and adolescents. It is however important to note that these are symptoms – we don't know how many of the children would be diagnosed with depression. When parents complete the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire, it is estimated that it will accurately identify 75% of children with depression and 73% of children without depression. But it is less accurate when children complete it. Recent research suggests that it can identify 60% of children with depression and 61% of children without depression. Despite these limitations, the fact that so many children report symptoms is of concern. Various experts in the media have suggested reasons, ranging from greater awareness of mental health issues and therefore increased reporting, to greater pressure from social media. Further research is needed to identify the causes. It is important to seek help early for children with emotional problems and your GP is the best place to start. You can also contact the charity Young Minds that offers information and help to both young people and their parents or carers. Links To The Headlines Quarter of 14-year-old girls 'have signs of depression' BBC News, September 20 2017 How a quarter of girls are hit by depression: Shocking figures show teenagers are struggling to cope with school, stress and pressures of social media Mail Online, September 20 2017 Teenage Blues One in four British girls hit ...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Mental health Source Type: news