Mindful paths forward: Effective treatment for youth experiencing depression in British Columbia

Youth between the ages of 15 and 24 face the highest rates of depression in Canada. Depression is a mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, acts, and feels, and it contributes to a variety of adverse outcomes for individuals and society if left untreated. Despite this, youth in British Columbia continue to face barriers that hinder both help-seeking and the ability to access effective treatments. This study utilizes a literature review, jurisdictional scan, and findings from 15 expert interviews to determine the most significant barriers experienced by youth in BC. Four policy options for increasing access to and use of effective depression treatments among youth in BC are then proposed and analyzed. Ultimately, this study recommends care passports and the implementation of CBT in schools, followed by a survey and coverage of psychotherapy through BC’s Medical Services Plan, based on the analysis.