Less Than 25 Percent of Bullied Teens Receive Appropriate Care

*The following is excerpted from an online article from PsychCentral.

A new study finds that although nearly one in three U.S. adolescents are affected by bullying, few receive the mental help they need.

In a study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) National Conference, researchers call for better communication between medical providers, school officials, and parents to reduce the myriad barriers that impede necessary care.

It is recognized that bullying places adolescents at risk for health problems including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Unfortunately, fewer than a quarter of these teens receive help, and the new research identifies some of the reasons why.

Researchers surveyed 440 students in high school and middle school in Cumberland County, North Carolina. Mirroring national trends, an average of 29 percent of the respondents reported being bullied in the past.

Among 11- to 14-year-olds, 54 percent reported being bullied, compared with 46 percent of those 15 to 18 years old.

Researchers identified 28 barriers to mental health services in the study, 11 of which were specific to respondents who experienced prior bullying. Chief among these was a lack of adequate screening and counseling by medical providers, said Amira El Sherif, M.D., FAAP.

Other obstacles included school system barriers such as inaction by educators and poor enforcement of investigation procedures, and inadequate school follow-up and communication with parents.

“As a pediatrician, this study reminded me that we can always do more for our patients,” Dr. El Sherif said.

“Bullying should become a part of the normal conversation in the office. Doctors, parents, and school officials should also work together to address bullying when it occurs and to make sure mental health services are accessible when needed.”

Schools also need training programs that include frequent evaluations to ensure quality standards are consistently met, Dr. El Sherif said.

Source: PsychCentral
http://psychcentral.com/news/2015/10/26/less-than-25-percent-of-bullied-teens-receive-appropriate-care/93990.html