Seeking Solutions to a Growing Problem
There are several studies documenting the growing problem of adolescent depression and suicide and, for this reason, the topic is attracting a lot of attention, according to Corinna Rea, MD, MPH, a pediatrician working in the primary care center at Boston Children’s Hospital in Massachusetts.
Dr. Rea was not involved with the study, but when asked to comment, she said: “The results of this study were encouraging because we know that getting patients to care quickly is probably important.” She also agreed that referring patients with depression for care might not be enough, noting that a lot of patients do not follow up on recommendations to pursue a consultation or treatment.
“I am now involved in a project with the American Academy of Pediatrics to address this issue,” Dr. Rae said. She thinks that more work in this area is needed and agreed with Dr. Krantz that pediatricians should verify that children with depression are getting help even when other specialists are providing the treatment.
Dr. Krantz and Dr. Rae report no potential conflicts of interest.