U.S. Preventive Services Task Force is now recommending all pediatricians and physicians screen for depression in adolescents. Clinical Depression effects approximately 8% of youth ages 12-18. This is a much needed recommendation as physicians are usually the first line of adolescent mental health. Physicians are now being called to screen and then have a system in place to connect teens with mental health care. About 17% of high schoolers have considered suicide in the past year and 8% have attempted it. This task force also reiterates the benefits of therapy and the use of antidepressants in adolescents is safe and effective. Prozac and Lexapro are approved medications for teenagers.
