California schools battle depression by screening their students

By Staff Writer

Some schools in the Los Angeles area are beginning to keep a closer eye on teen depression and suicide threats. In order to remain proactive, these learning institutions are urging their students to fill out questionnaires about heir lives.

Moreover, counselors were tasked with interviewing nearly 50 students, after their questionnaires noted that they may be suffering from depression, to provide help, The Los Angeles Times reports.

Recent legislation is promoting prevention training for teachers and staff. However, some school districts are taking it a step further by screening troubled teens for signs of depression and suicidal ideation. Officials told the news source that while many adolescents hold in their emotions, that can be a sign that they are suffering from a mood disorder.

Programs for troubled teens can help children who suffer from depression by offering individual therapy. Furthermore, boarding schools can provide a learning environment that is conducive to achieving academic and behavioral success.

According to the National Institute on Mental Health, nearly 22 million people in the United States suffer from depression each year.