The mental health of children and adolescents: Time to act

In the final year of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health among children and adolescents gained significant attention. Early proposals called for a multidisciplinary group to coordinate mental health responses. Evidence has shown a notable increase in depression and anxiety, with a meta-analysis revealing rates of 23.8% for depression and 19% for anxiety among adolescents, more than double pre-pandemic figures. Demand for mental health services has surged, especially among adolescents requiring hospitalization. Despite effective treatments being available, mental health services remain inadequate. Urgent action is needed for early diagnosis and integrated care, connecting schools and social services. Schools must also focus on providing supportive environments as they reopen. Pediatricians and health professionals are encouraged to actively support families and address mental health issues through a collaborative approach that combines health, education, and social welfare.