The mental health care of young people has increased more rapidly than that of adults, and has coincided with increased psychotropic medication use, according to an analysis of survey data in JAMA Psychiatry. The majority of mental health care is provided by non-psychiatrist physicians. The researchers conclude that while this trend represents new opportunities to help children and teens, it also “poses risks related to adverse medication effects, delivery of non-evidence-based care and poorly coordinated services.”
Olfson, M., Blanco, C., Wang, S., Laje, G., Correll, C.; National Trends in the Mental Health Care of Children, Adolescents, and Adults by Office-Based Physicians. JAMA Psychiatry. November 27, 2013. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2013.3074
Mental-Health Disorders Growing Faster Among Kids Than Adults: Study (US News)