CONCLUSIONS: Adolescent-onset Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is highly recurrent and carries a significant long-term risk for further psychiatric issues and suicide. However, the rigid transition from child to adult services at age 18 appears to disrupt care continuity. Runaway behaviour should be considered a marker of suicide risk, whereas earlier psychiatric contact may be protective. Youth psychiatry programs are needed to bridge the child-adult service gap for adolescents with depression.
