(The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.)
Kai Zhuang Shum, University of Tennessee
(THE CONVERSATION) Youth mental health has worsened significantly over the past decade, but new interventions that teach positive psychology concepts in school may help.
American young people are reporting historically high levels of hopelessness, sadness and loneliness. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 20% of adolescents have seriously considered suicide – and suicide is the second-leading cause of death for children ages 10-14.
Perhaps even more alarming than the prevalence of youth mental health problems is the inaccessibility of mental health supportfor the many children who need it. About 60% of depressed adolescents do not receive any treatment – and around...
