Nearly one in five American adolescents aged 12 to 17 experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year, according to new data released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association. This represents approximately 4.5 million young people nationwide grappling with clinical depression, and the National Institute of Mental Health has shown that these rates are significantly higher among female adolescents (29.2%) compared to males (11.5%).
This concerning trend marks a sharp increase from historical rates. In 2013-2014, approximately 11% of adolescents nationwide experienced a major depressive episode – roughly 2.7 million teens. By 2017, this figure had risen to 13%, affecting 3.2 million adolescents. The current rates reflect continued worsening, with SAMHSA’s data showing 18.1% of adolescents experiencing major depressive episodes based on a 2023 survey.
Acadia Healthcare and its network of affiliates operate numerous facilities specifically designed to address adolescent mental health needs. The network’s specialized adolescent treatment services span multiple levels of care, from inpatient crisis stabilization to residential programs and outpatient services.
Specialized Treatment Approaches
Mental health disorders manifest differently in adolescents than adults, which may require specialized treatment approaches.
Acadia’s network operates a range of specialized treatment programs designed specifically for children and adolescents across its facilities. These include acute inpatient psychiatric facilities for crisis stabilization, specialty treatment facilities for specific conditions, residential treatment centers for longer-term care, and outpatient services for ongoing support. The goal is to provide age-appropriate care delivered in settings with similar-aged peers to help create supportive healing environments.
The company’s treatment approach uses multidisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, registered nurses, social workers, and recreational therapists. Their therapeutic models include evidence-based practices like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other modalities specifically adapted for adolescent populations. Where clinically appropriate, educational services may be integrated into treatment programs, allowing young people to continue meeting academic requirements while receiving care.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine reports that approximately 50 million Americans experience behavioral health issues, with adolescents representing a significant and growing portion of this population. Research indicates fewer than half of adults with behavioral health issues accessed timely care, with even lower rates for those with substance use disorders.
Family Support and Community Partnerships
Acadia’s network has expanded its services in recent years to meet growing demand for behavioral health care in the United States. In 2024, the network constructed approximately 1,300 new inpatient beds, with 800 licensed by year-end. During the first quarter of 2025, Acadia’s network added 378 additional beds, comprising 90 beds to existing facilities and 288 beds from new facilities. While these new facilities serve patients of all ages, many include specialized units for adolescent care.
Acadia Healthcare’s network of affiliates maintains specific resources for families navigating the treatment landscape for their children. Through its Children’s Behavioral Solutions (CBS) program, Acadia offers a free service that connects families with appropriate treatment options for children ages 6-21 who are struggling with behavioral health concerns.
Acadia’s network CBS program works closely with families to help navigate treatment options. Designated coordinators provide centralized support and help ensure ongoing communication with families throughout the treatment process, offering progress updates and post-discharge support.
Beyond direct treatment services, Acadia’s network has formed partnerships to address youth mental health more broadly. The network maintains a national partnership with The Jason Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to youth suicide prevention through educational initiatives. In May 2024, this partnership expanded with the launch of the Phoenix Division, a new initiative specifically focused on addressing substance use disorders and their connection to mental health concerns that can lead to suicidal ideation. The Jason Foundation now operates Community Resource Centers in 47 Acadia network CTCs across the country.
For 2025, Acadia’s network expects to add between 800-1,000 total beds, with continued expansion projected at 600-800 beds annually through 2028.
