Depression and Young Girls, are Rates Increasing?

Increasing Rates of Depression in Girls

As rates of depression among the girl demographic increases, it gives pause to how this will affect future generations of adults. We pride ourselves on removing the stigma of mental health. It’s important that treatment for mental health issues becomes more socially accepted.

Teenagers and angst seem to go hand-in-hand with one another. However, sometimes there is more than just angst going on. What happens then? Research is starting show us that clinic depression with young girls is starting to rise. For instance, clinic depression among adolescent girls has increased by 37 percent, with one in six girls experiencing an episode in the past year. A study published by Pediatrics, recently addressed the mental issues of young people and its overwhelming  prevalence. 

“This shows us there are a growing number of untreated adolescents with depression and that we are making few inroads in getting mental health care to this population. It is imperative that we find ways to reach these teenagers and help them manage their depression,” says Ramin Mojatabai, MD, PhD, MPH at the Bloomberg School. Ramin is explaining a recent epidemic. The epidemic is that we have seen enormous climbs in young adults being diagnosed with depression. Shockingly, there have been lower rates of treatment.

Thoughts that Economic Downturn Could be Affecting Adolescents

From 2005 to 2014, depressive episodes among female adolescents increased from 13.1 percent to 17.3 percent with whites more predisposed than non-whites.  There is an interesting coincidence of the resulting increase – the economic downturn. Although, the change in economic climate did not affect the rate of depression in young adults.

Depression Increases may Link to Social Media

Some think that the growth in depression among females may be correlated to their increased use of social media, screen entertainment, and mobile phones. 

However, the problem remains: suicide rates for adolescent girls has tripled over the last 15 years. One of the predictions? Suicidal rates could be growing due to the most popular depression medications having a warning sign for people under the age of 26. The warning states: that by taking the medication you can increase your risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.

Depression should always be taken seriously. At Amen Clinics, we see each patient as an individual and they are diagnosed and treated as such, using the least toxic and most effective means possible. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and we can help navigate the way. Call 888-288-9834 today.