Describe the approved topic and associated population your group has selected. Discuss how this topic adversely affects the population. How does health disparity affect this population?

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Topic: Adolescent mental health and depression

The population of adolescents aged 12-18

Introduction:

Depression and mental health are important issues for adolescents. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 20 percent of adolescents between 13 and 18 years old have a serious mental illness. Depression is the most prevalent (NIMH 2021). Depression can affect the lives of teenagers, causing poor performance in school, drug abuse and even suicidal thoughts. This presentation aims to present evidence-based strategies that optimize health for adolescents who suffer from depression and propose a health promotion program centered on the family.

The Effects of Depression on Adolescents

It can lead to poor academic performance, lack of interest in activities, social isolation and substance abuse. Depression can affect academic performance and lead to social isolation, addiction, suicidal ideas, or a loss of interest in hobbies. Depressive disorders can have a negative impact on the mental development of teenagers, resulting in long-term issues.

Health Disparities

The term health disparity is used to describe the difference in outcomes between different groups. Children from low-income households, racial or ethnic minorities and rural residents are more likely than others to experience depression, as well as have poor access to mental healthcare (CDC,2020).

Evidence-based Approaches:

These evidence-based interventions can help improve health and decrease health disparities for adolescents who suffer from depression.

1. Screening: The early detection of depression and its treatment can help to prevent the negative effects. Adolescents need to be checked for depression at routine healthcare visits (AACAP 2018).
2. Cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT). CBT is an effective form of therapy that involves identifying and changing negative behaviors and thoughts. The effectiveness of CBT in treating depression among adolescents has been proven (AACAP 2018).
3. Drugs: Adolescents suffering from moderate-severe depression can be prescribed antidepressants. Healthcare providers should carefully consider the risks and benefits of using medication in adolescents (AACAP 2018).

Promoting Family Health:

Depression in teenagers can be addressed with a family-centered plan for health promotion. Following is an evidence-based proposal:

1. Health care providers can inform families about the symptoms and signs of depression and how important it is to detect and treat the condition early.
2. Active behavior: Parents can learn to motivate their teens to take part in fun activities like sports, music and hobbies.
3. Supporting adolescents: You can teach your family to support their teens emotionally and to encourage them to get help.

Health Organizations:

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI: NAMI provides education and support to those with mental illness as well as their families.
2. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: AACAP promotes healthy child and adolescent development.

Interprofessional Health Professionals

These health professionals are interdisciplinary.