The Critical Role of Pharmacists in Addressing the Pediatric Mental Health Crisis: A Pediatric Pharmacy Association Position Paper.

Abstract

The significant rise in rates of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents coupled with underdiagnosis and undertreatment poses a serious health threat to the pediatric population. The escalating pediatric mental health crisis has been associated with rising suicide rates and attempts, increased deaths due to drug overdose, higher health care costs, and limited access to adequate care. A shortage of mental health resources and specialized providers in both community and institutional settings further exacerbates these challenges. This paucity of care highlights the need for additional support, and pharmacists, as accessible health professionals, can help bridge the gap in pediatric mental health care. Pharmacists play a vital role in pediatric mental health by advocating for and performing mental health screenings for pediatric patients presenting with acute psychological and behavioral health issues across various care settings, including emergency departments, inpatient units and outpatient pharmacies. Additionally, pharmacists enhance the efficacy and safety of psychotropic therapies in children with diagnosed mental health conditions by minimizing drug interactions, optimizing dosing, monitoring for adverse effects, and providing patient and family education. This article serves as a Position Statement of the Pediatric Pharmacy Association (PPA), which strongly advocates for the inclusion of pharmacists as key members of multidisciplinary teams supporting pediatric patients with mental health challenges, emphasizing their critical role in improving patient outcomes. Additionally, PPA advocates for routine mental health screenings for all pediatric patients and recommends utilization of referrals and standardized workflows for managing pediatric mental health conditions and substance use disorders.