Study: Teen depression rates soared in recent years
Overall, depression rates increased 33 percent nationwide in the 2013 to 2016 period, according to a recent study. (File)
Rates of major depression are up 63 percent among teens, and are up nearly 50 percent among young adults.
That’s according to Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, which analyzed medical claims data from 41 million people nationwide during the period from 2013 through 2016.
Researchers are targeting pressure to succeed at school and social isolation as two factors contributing to the rise in claims, said Dr. Trent Haywood, the association’s chief medical officer.
Haywood said said social media use may be playing a role in social isolation. “High utilizers of social media also correlates with higher rates of social isolation, which leads to depression, so we’re exploring that particular angle.”
The research also suggests more people are seeking treatment for depression, and that’s a good thing, Haywood said. He urged those feeling depressed to seek treatment, noting that failure to treat depression can lead to other problems, such as substance abuse.
The report also found women are twice as likely as men to report depression, and that rates vary across regions and ethnic groups.
To view the study, click here.
