News & Politics

Shortage of mental health services for teens forces parents to take desperate measures

by PBS NewsHour

📚 Main Topics

Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health CareThe pandemic has exacerbated existing issues within the mental health care system, leading to increased demand and strain on resources.
Desperate Measures by ParentsFamilies are facing difficult choices and financial burdens to secure necessary treatment for their children.
Shortage of Mental Health ProfessionalsA significant decline in available mental health services and professionals has left many children without adequate care.
Case StudiesPersonal stories highlight the struggles of families dealing with severe mental health issues in children.

✨ Key Takeaways

Increased Mental Health IssuesMany children, like Hannah, are experiencing severe mental health crises, including suicidal behavior and violent tendencies, often requiring emergency interventions.
Cycle of Emergency Room VisitsFamilies report a frustrating cycle of seeking help in emergency rooms, which are not equipped to provide long-term psychiatric care.
Financial StrainThe high costs of treatment, coupled with inadequate insurance coverage, force families into difficult financial situations, sometimes leading to the sale of personal assets to afford care.
Regressive Treatment OutcomesDischarges from residential treatment often result in regression of mental health conditions, leaving families to start over in their search for help.

🧠 Lessons Learned

Need for Systemic ChangeThere is a critical need for improved infrastructure and a larger workforce in mental health care to meet the growing demand.
Importance of Coordination of CareNew programs aimed at coordinating care for children with complex needs are essential to help families navigate the system and find appropriate resources.
Community SupportBuilding a supportive community around families can alleviate some of the burdens they face in seeking care for their children.
Advocacy for Better FundingIncreased funding and resources are necessary to ensure that children receive the mental health care they need without placing undue financial strain on families.

This report underscores the urgent need for reform in the mental health care system to better support children and their families during these challenging times.

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Transcript excerpt

0:03 >> Turning now to a major issue, the covid-19 pandemic field strain on the mental health care system and as Christopher reports, parents have had to take desperate measures to get treatment. It's part of our series. This report includes discussion of suicide and depression.

0:34 >> Every night, Hannah calls her mom. >> Did you eat today? >> We had spaghetti and meatballs. >>, Has been a patient in Oklahoma since January. >> When did you notice? >> Almost immediately. >> After she was adopted, Hannah

1:06 was diagnosed with pcs teeth. Those conditions were manageable but got worse when puberty hit. >> The end of fifth grade moves when she fell apart. >> In recent years, Hannah made multiple suicide attempts. >> The older, bigger, stronger, harder it is. >> Her behaviors became violent?

1:39 >> Very much so. Once you get her calm and regulated, she is horrified. >> Lisa says she is safe. >> She can't access anything, all the sharps are removed. >> The goal is to abide treatments so kids can return home. In 2007, the average length

2:09 varied. Lisa says Hannah has made progress with daily therapy. >> I am hearing light in her voice area >> It's been a difficult journey to get the treatment she needs. Like many kids with severe mental health needs, she cycled in and out of emergency rooms. >> Children are children.

🔒 The full, searchable transcript is available with Pro.

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