Two decades of hospital admissions for adolescents with depression in Spain

Area of Science:

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Public Health
• Mental Health Epidemiology

Background:

• Adolescent depression is a significant mental health concern impacting well-being and functioning.
• Early identification and intervention are vital for managing youth depression.
• Understanding trends in adolescent depression is essential for public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze trends and determinants of hospitalizations for depression among adolescents in Spain.
• To identify demographic and clinical factors associated with adolescent depression admissions.
• To inform public health policies for youth mental health.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of hospital discharge data in Spain (2000-2021).
• Inclusion of individuals aged 11-18 years hospitalized for depression.
• Statistical analysis of incidence, demographics, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• A dramatic 1217% increase in adolescent depression hospitalizations from 2000-2021.
• Females constituted 74.3% of admissions; a trend towards younger ages was observed.
• Depression was linked to suicidal behavior; older age predicted in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions:

• Adolescent hospitalizations for depression have risen sharply in Spain.
• Enhanced school-based early detection and timely interventions are urgently needed.
• Addressing the escalating burden of youth mental health disorders requires prioritized action.