Medicalization of Childhood

In the US, about 1 in 12 children under the age of 17 is on some sort of drug designed to combat mental illness, from antidepressants to antipsychotics to ADHD medications like Ritalin and Adderall. This number has been rising in recent years, not just in America, but also in Britain, with a 41% increase in children on antidepressants over just four years. The COVID lockdowns made things even worse by isolating kids from their friends, outdoor play, and recreational activities.

Trusted institutions like the American Academy of Pediatrics have played a significant role in the medicalization of children by endorsing practices like early gender transitioning, and advocating for the use of pharmaceutical interventions to address behavioral challenges. Free the People’s Sam Martin checks the facts and reminds us of the oath that every medical professional is required to swear: First, do no harm.