Bridging the gap: Identifying depression and suicidality in pediatric surgical patients and the need for early screening

jpedsurg.org

Depression rates among adolescents in the United States (U.S.) are rising. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for depression in adolescents, which has been done in selective settings but not universally among pediatric surgery patients. We aimed to determine the prevalence of depression in this population.

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Article · Aug 2025 · 1 min read

In brief

This study examines depression prevalence among pediatric surgical patients, highlighting a gap in routine mental health screening. The authors advocate for systematic preoperative depression and suicidality assessment in adolescents undergoing surgery, aligning with USPSTF recommendations for universal screening in this vulnerable population.

Adolescent depression rates are increasing in the U.S., requiring heightened clinical awareness across all specialties.
Universal depression screening is recommended by USPSTF for adolescents but not routinely implemented in pediatric surgery settings.
Pediatric surgical patients may have unrecognized depression, highlighting the need for preoperative mental health screening protocols.
Early identification of depression in surgical patients can improve perioperative outcomes and facilitate timely psychiatric referral.
Integrating mental health screening into surgical workflows addresses a critical gap in comprehensive adolescent care.

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