Increase in Hospitalization for Young Females with Depression

The Center for Disease Control published data on July 6,2006 indicating a shape increase in hospitalization rates for female ages 5-19 from 1990-1992 to 2002 -2004 11.2 per 100,00o to 27.8 per 100, 000. The rate of hospitalization for depression increased approximately 81% for females aged 5--19 years. The rate for young females was nearly twice that for young males during 2002--2004.

What does this mean for clinicians and the population at large? We can speculate about the causes of this increase which may include more pressure on young women to be a certain way, changes in the family structure that create more adjustment for all of our children. As clinicians and community members, what are ways that we can improve prevention and early intervention with these young ladies? Schools are finding the need for mental health professionals in the school although sadly the resources to fund these professionals are diminishing. These are the first programs to go when schools are trying to find monies to continue with their core mission which is to provide the children with an education.

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