Asian Americans are most depressed out of all teen demographics

By Staff Writer

A new report by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reveals that Asian American girls have the highest rate of depression among all teenage demographics.

The agency's conclusion was based on a series of therapeutic sessions with mental health experts as well as data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health and National Asian Women's Health Organization. The organizations found that young Asian Americans between the ages of 15 and 24 die from suicide at a higher rate than other racial and ethnic groups in the same age group.

Among Asian Americans of all ages, suicide is the fifth leading cause of death. Comparatively, suicide is the ninth leading cause of death for white Americans.

The NAMI stated that these figures reveal a significant barrier between Asian American Pacific Islander youth and mental health services. Furthermore, the organization found that this demographic of teens may have negative perceptions on emotional problems that prevent them from seeking help.

Adolescents who suffer from depression or other mental health disorders may benefit from wilderness therapy programs, which are designed to provide help for troubled teens.