The reality of mental health care for young people, and the urgent need for solutions

Description

Mental ill health is by far the principal source of burden of disease for people aged 12–25 years, and at least 50% of young people will experience mental health problems. Further, the mental health of young people has been steadily under-mined in recent decades by a cluster of socio-economic forces.

This syndemic trend has accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with surveys and health department data documenting the wave of distress, mental ill health, and suicidal behaviour flowing into emergency departments and bloating waiting lists.

This editorial presents key considerations for early intervention.

 

Learning Outcomes

• Explain key components of the editorial.
• List main considerations for early intervention.

 

Author: Professor Patrick McGorry AO

Article Type: Editorial