NPR’s The Spark: What are some of the causes for teen depression and ways to help?

Dec 27, 2022

Our Founder and President, Elliot Kallen, is featured on NPR’s The Spark to discuss teen depression and ways to help those experiencing it. Listen to the podcast below and click the forward button to share with family and friends. You can also catch the podcast on NPR’s Podcast Directory and Apple Podcasts.

According to HealthDay News, 1 in 10 Americans suffer from depression, with the mood disorder increasing fastest among teens and young adults.

New research from the Boston University School of Public Health reveals that the elevated rate of depression since the start of COVID-19 has persisted into 2021, and even worsened, climbing to about 33% and affecting 1 in every 3 American adults.

According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide is the second leading cause of death for children, adolescents, and young adults.

“Depression is a sadness that overwhelms the human body. It is a disease in its own right,” Kallen, who created his organization after his 19-year-old son died by suicide, said. “I look at (depression) as six walls of a room, including the floor to ceiling. The walls begin to turn black and darken, and at some point, they’re all black… You’re the parent. You’ve got to help your child, put your child first and get your child some help.” – Elliot Kallen

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