Providing youth mental health services is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Services must be culturally sensitive, accessible and affordable, and be delivered in both specialist and non-specialist settings. Outreach services are particularly important for young people who are reluctant to seek treatment in a mental health facility. The physical environment of youth mental health services should be safe, inclusive and welcoming. The services should be free or affordable, and young people should be aware of them. The services should also be accessible to young people who may be from refugee or migrant backgrounds.
One key area of change in youth mental health services has been the shift from in-person consultations to telehealth consultations. While in-person visits remain the most common method, youth services were among the first to use telehealth in early March. The shift in service delivery is apparent in the data tables.
Building trusting relationships between youth and service providers is critical to improving mental health outcomes. Young people want to connect with service providers who are open to their ideas and are responsive to their needs. Service providers must be open, curious and follow-up. In addition, they should have cultural competency and be allies to young people. Finally, youth mental health services should be culturally competent. Young people want to work with people who are sensitive to their identity and culture.
The film offers first-person accounts of 20 young people, who discuss the barriers to mental health treatment and recovery. While the film tackles tough issues, it also shows the resilience and hope of those who have overcome mental health issues. Seeing the stories of others may open the door for conversation and change. This film can be viewed free until July 25.
The need for mental health services for adolescents is growing. Statistics show that one in seven adolescents suffers from a mental disorder. This accounts for 13% of the global burden of disease in this age group. The most common mental health conditions among adolescents include depression and anxiety. Suicide remains the second leading cause of death in young people. Failing to address mental health problems during the adolescent stage can significantly limit the chances of a productive adulthood.
Despite these challenges, there are many opportunities for transformation of the youth mental health care system in India. There are a number of existing programmatic frameworks that can be leveraged to implement youth mental health care. These include the national mental health policy, national adolescent health program, and Ayushman Bharat-Health and Wellness Centres. These initiatives emphasize the promotion of life skills, psychosocial well-being, and education.
Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in older adolescents. Risk factors include harmful alcohol use and childhood abuse. In addition, stigmas against seeking help may prevent many youth from seeking treatment. Digital media may play a large role in suicide prevention efforts. As a result, the prevention of suicide is critical. It is vital to address the risk factors in youth so that they do not become more prevalent.
Many youth do not seek help when they feel anxious, so it’s important to encourage them to seek professional advice if they feel unwell. If they are unable to seek help, it may be best for parents to take the initiative and seek help for themselves. Fortunately, youth mental health services are available throughout New York City, and there are many resources available online and at local clinics. The services are confidential and offer support and help.