Addressing youths’ mental illness

Re “Young and Alone,” Feb. 27: The article states that “about 15 million U.S. children ages 9 to 17 are thought to have a serious mental or addictive disorder.” Is the answer really to train more psychiatrists to treat these desperate children and families? Why are we not asking ourselves why so many children are affected by serious mental disorders?

As a therapist who has helped many of these families through these desperate times, I have deep sympathy and know that more treatment needs to be available, but let’s look at prevention, not just treatment.

LESLIE L. BECKER

Blue Jay, Calif.

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