BARBARA RAYMENT YOUTH ACCESS Heads Together Improving responses to young peoples mental health

Key Messages from KDA Falling suicide rates Prevalence of psychiatric disorders: 12.6% (M) 10.3% (F) up to 15 years Very high rates of psychiatric disorders among looked after children Higher risks for those in poverty and some ethnic groups Gender differences: more girls feeling anxious

Emotional Wellbeing Girls (especially older) report more lower life satisfaction and symptoms indicating higher levels of day to day stress (HSBC England 2011) Around 30% of young people report regularly feel low, sad or down. (HSBC England 2011) Past 3 years declining levels of general well-being amongst year olds (Princes Trust Macquarie Youth Index ) Almost half of young people not in work say unemployment has caused problems including self harm, insomnia, self loathing and panic attacks (Princes Trust Macquarie Youth Index)

What young people say they want Non-stigmatising, young people friendly services Easy to access – self referral Confidential Age appropriate Holistic

Current Policy responses Mental Health Strategy Extension of IAPT to CYP Wider NHS Reforms Public health agenda