Increase in Antidepressant Prescriptions Among Young People

The podcast highlights the alarming increase in the number of young people being prescribed antidepressants, which has risen by 66% from 2008 to 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic has likely exacerbated this trend. Factors such as social media, lockdowns, and anxiety have significantly impacted the mental health of teenagers. The podcast shares personal stories of young individuals navigating their mental health journeys and being on antidepressant medications. It also discusses a major review on antidepressant use in young people, which reveals an increase in suicide-related outcomes. The review emphasizes the need for caution and close monitoring when prescribing these medications to young people.