Instructions  

Think of a current health issue. Explain the path of this issue, from conception toward being in the forefront of society.

SOLUTION  

Week 4: Analysis of Path to Recent Healthcare Policy

The focus of my healthcare policy issue since NR 506 has been societal awareness of mental health disorders, especially among adolescents, and eliminating stigmas linked to individuals suffering from mental illness. Recently, my local channel 8 news featured a week- long storyline about the teen suicide epidemic in the state of Ohio. Teen suicide and depression is a major public health crisis that can have devastating effects on individuals, families, and communities. The Ohio Department of Health (2016) reported: “in the United States, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death overall and the second leading cause of death among youth and young adults (aged 10-24 years)”. Since August 2017 there have been 6 teen suicides, ages ranging from 14 to 18, in 6 months in one Ohio school district. Policy makers have called for a more critical examination of the mental health treatment system, and advocates are rallying around federal legislation that would strengthen community-based mental health services for children and adolescents.

Why is There a Rise in Teen Suicide?

Health factors such as having a mental health disorder, and/or a substance use disorder are the most significant risk factors for suicidal behaviors. In the late 80s, there was a decline in teen suicide due to new antidepressants that were more effective and had fewer side effects (Bichell, 2016). So, what changed? Many experts are unclear what the exact causes are for the rise in teen suicides. Some speculations include the increased academic pressure and increased homework loads, continuing changes in family structure, patterns of substance misuse, the lack of insurance coverage, the inability to access mental health services, and the increased popularity….please click the purchase button below to access the entire solution at $10