The National Institute on Aging (NIA) suggests that older adults often face challenges such as chronic health conditions, loss of loved ones, retirement, and social isolation, which can contribute to the development or exacerbation of mental health issues. Social isolation has been identified as a significant risk factor for depression and cognitive decline among older adults.
The National Council of Aging (NCOA) and the American Geriatrics Society states, geriatric mental health disorders are frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. Factors contributing to this include stigma surrounding mental health in older adults, physical health issues overshadowing mental health symptoms, and a lack of awareness among healthcare providers about the specific mental health needs of older populations.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that integrated care models that address both physical and mental health needs have been shown to be effective in improving outcomes for older adults. These models often involve collaboration between primary care providers, mental health specialists, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for older adults with mental health disorders source.

A CDC study examined mental health symptoms in four different U.S. school districts during 2014–2018. The results showed that about 1 in 6 students had enough behavioral or emotional symptoms and impairment to be diagnosed with a childhood mental disorder; rates varied among the different sites. (Danielson, et al, 2020)

Parents and caregivers may look for changes in their youth such as withdrawal, isolation, disconnection, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, feelings of hopelessness, sadness that lasts longer than 2 weeks, risk-taking behaviors, changes in school grades, changes in appetite, and sleeping patterns.

Schools may consider increasing mental health literacy, consider screening students for mental health concerns, and providing effective prevention services such as school-based cognitive behavioral therapy, and training administration, teachers, and staff in Youth Mental Health First Aid while creating a system of care with referrals and treatment services.

Primary care providers may consider using a collaborative care approach integrating pediatric, family medicine, psychiatric services, and mental health supports. Public health systems may evaluate, monitor, and disseminate mental health data to examine behavioral health changes over time in children.

If a child is having thoughts of suicide, mental health crises, or emotional distress over time, the 988 is a universal access point to mental health supports. Children, caregivers, and professionals may call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org for themselves or if they are worried about a loved one.

Danielson, M. L., Bitsko, R. H., Holbrook, J. R., Charania, S. N., Claussen, A. H., PhD; McKeown, R. E., Cuffe, S. P., Owens, J. S., Evans, S. W., Kubicek, L., & Flory, K. (2020). Community-based prevalence of externalizing and internalizing disorders among school-aged children and adolescents in four geographically dispersed school districts in the United States. Child Psychiatry & Human Development. Published online July 31, 2020.