Health Policy Changes to Ameliorate the Youth Mental Health Crisis

Approximately 20% of American youth suffer from a mental health concern, and 80% have never received any services. In 2018, suicide became the second leading cause of death in children ages 10-14 years. Preventative care is freely provided by most medical insurance plans and recommended by state and professional organizations, but barriers prevent care access and early intervention, resulting in long-term consequences. To promote early identification and intervention, evaluation with validated mental health screening tools should be completed according to clinical guidelines at each wellness visit or visit for a mental health concern. Payers must sufficiently reimburse NPs, PCPs, and healthcare systems for screening tools used during all wellness visits, focused mental health visits, and follow-up care. Health policy change and legislative and NP support are essential to provide vital services for youth mental healthcare.