Recent events in Boston, including a teen suicide cluster, persistent levels of suicidal ideation noted in the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, and input from the community prompted the city health department to examine the state of mental health for Boston's children and youth. Although no nationwide surveillance tool for chldren and youth exists, seven data sets were available to the city for analysis. They included self-report surveys, Medicaid claims data, and epidemiological surveillance data; all were collected between 1996 and 1999. The data were used to estimate the prevalence of mental disorders and to assess utilization of publicly funded mental health services. According to the survey data, approximately 21.3% of Boston adolescents had ever considered suicide, 12.0% had actually attempted it during the previous 12 months, and 4.5% had required medical treatment for an attempt. Twenty-two percent of Boston youth said they were frequently depressed, and 17% said they had no one to talk to when stressed. Significant differences by sex and age existed in mental disorder diagnoses, emergency service utilization, and use of Medicaid behavioral health services. Data from the city's emergency room-based surveillance system of youth injury provided additional information about suicide attempts by Boston youth. This analysis supported the perception of substantial levels of emotional distress in city youth and of significant gaps both in services and in data. The results of the analysis are being used to inform health policy, improve surveillance, and help the city health department develop prevention and treatment initiatives.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant in this session will be able to: 1. Identify existing data sets for assessment of child and adolescent mental health needs in communities. 2. Recognize the role of a local health department in advocating for and expanding mental health services. 3. Articulate how an analysis of mental health data can be used to inform health policy and improve surveillance
Keywords: Mental Health, Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.