Adolescent Mental Health Resources
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Youth Risk Behavior Survey Data Summary & Trends Report: 2011-2021 reveal that poor mental health and suicidal thoughts and behaviors are increasing among 9th-12th grade students. There is an important role for pediatricians, parents/caregivers, communities, and schools to play in promoting healthy mental development and addressing mental health concerns of youth; this includes providing youth with self-care practices and tools to help them manage stress, regulate emotions, and prevent illness. Check out the resources below from the HHS Office of Population Affairs and AAP that can be used to help improve youth mental health.
Office of Population Affairs Resources
AAP Resources
Clinical Guidance and Policy on Mental Health/Mental Health Competencies
Tools and Resources
Physician Education and Training: Includes a video series, telehealth modules, access to online courses, and more to help in the delivery of mental health care
Practice Tools & Resources: Includes guidance on getting your practice ready; practice workflow tools; and examples of brief interventions and symptom-based care
Resources for Families: This section contains handouts for families to help them support their child/adolescent’s healthy mental development and provides links to articles on AAP’s public-facing Web site, www.HealthyChildren.org
National and Community Resources: This section provides helpful links to key external organizations that have mental health resources for children, adolescents, and families
Physician Health and Wellness: Find resources to support your own self-care and wellness
Blueprint for Youth Suicide Prevention: An educational resource that provides strategies for identifying and supporting youth at risk for suicide.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 9-8-8 or text HOME to 741741)
A national 24-hour resource if someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis