Many working parents that I saw while working at an elementary school, where less in touch with their kids compared to many of us "baby boomer" generation, and sort of contribute to this problem, today's society, the news, bullying, and other issues that can be added to the mix, contribute to today's problems with kids, it is not that docs are handing out meds to kids like lollipops.
My sister-in-law and I (she is a school nurse for over 20 yrs.) have seen an inccrease of mothers asking their pediatricians or GP's to write scripts for Ritalin, the majority of the kids not having a need for the med, many not ADD/ADHD, my therapist even sees it and other professionals I have spoke to, many young parents, too busy, not having time to raise their kids, have behavioural problems that need discipline and attention, that is all, not some miracle med.
Now I am not speaking for all cases so I want to make it clear, I do not want anyone taking offense at what I am adding here, from "real life" experience and knowledge, I stress that I said "many" not "all" parents and kids.
We can't put the blame on doctors (unless they just freely agree with the parents) that are trying to take an easy way out of bringing up their children, it is the parent's responsibility to be there for their kids, not doctors nor the schools. Due to the high amount of divorce has been another contributing factor to many childrens problems, compared to decades ago, there is such a mix that is real while at the same time imagined by those that do not want to accept full responsibility for raising, nurturing and just being there for their kids. Years ago (many) people started families at an younger age, grandparents were still living and the children were able to have their grandparents fill in when mom or dad were too busy, or had to go somewhere were kids weren't allowed, being with a close relative during these sort of occasions was a big help, today we put off having kids till we are older and feel we can afford them and the dream house (or just suitable home) meanwhile most grandparents are no longer living, many children never get to have grandparents, so they end up under the care of strangers or daycare, may be good substitutes but leaves an uncontinued circle in "the circle of life" (Lion King) this affects some kids and then there may be some that are unaffected.
Sorry for this long winded reply, hope I didn't bore or agitate anyone, that was not the purpose of my reply
I just want people to not look to blame doctors, and schools for the increase in childhood depression, also we need to remember kids are human, they can have bad days, they don't always have a day in "Mr Rogers" neighborhood (many of us never did) so there will be times that kids can feel down, but if it is extended over a period, then it is a good idea to seek a child psychologist/therapist, perhaps through a doctors referral and try to nip the problem and work things out, if a parent is not available for the child, signs can go unnoticed and then more severe problems can develop.
Whew, DE, can talk a lot, ha!ha!
This was a great topic that was posted here, I thank all who added to this, helps us to see things aren't always "black and white" and there is not always the easy way out of working out things, especially our children, I just suggest parents make time to be with their kids, get involved with who they hang out with, where they are, and just talk with them, if something seems not right, ask them about their day at school, out on the playground, ro just right out ask them "how are you"? Is everything okay? Even working parents need to make time to talk, and be with your kids.
Just my long winded 2 cents.

Sincerely,
DE

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON