Understanding parent-reported factors that influence children and young people's anxiety and depression presentations...

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Mental Health
• Emergency Medicine
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Victorian emergency department (ED) data indicate a rise in pediatric presentations for anxiety and depression.
• Understanding parent-reported factors is crucial for addressing this trend.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify parent-reported reasons for seeking emergency care for children diagnosed with anxiety or depression.
• To inform the development of alternative support systems.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study involving semi-structured phone interviews with 70 parents of children (0-17 years) diagnosed with anxiety or depression.
• Interviews were conducted between October 2017 and September 2018 across four Victorian EDs.
• Thematic analysis was used to analyze transcribed interview data.

Main Results:

• Key themes influencing ED presentation included trust in professional advice, feelings of desperation, lack of alternatives, and the need to ensure child safety or rule out serious medical issues.
• Participants were primarily mothers (84%), and children averaged 14 years old, with a slight majority identified as female (63%).
• Anxiety was the primary diagnosis for 57% of children, while depression was primary for 43%.

Conclusions:

• Parents utilize EDs for pediatric anxiety and depression for various reasons, often feeling it is the only available option.
• There is a need for enhanced community-based support services, especially for younger children and outside standard hours.
• Collaboration between policymakers, managers, clinicians, and parents is essential to create appropriate alternative care pathways.