- New Survey highlights lack of adequate support in “dangerously long” waiting times
- Children wait 32 weeks for help
- 6,581 people committed suicide in the UK and Republic of Ireland in 2014
- The suicide crisis is now the biggest killer of young men
- Survey shows patients desperate for earlier intervention and face-to-face services
The Mental Health Sub-Committee of the UK's Youth Health Parliament 2016 present their first report on the struggles faced by today's NHS and the public before a 'White Paper' Policy is presented to HM Government later this year.
Campaigns such as Time to Change are tackling the stigma of mental health however there is a "lack of support" |
Increased funding is essential. Expanding the number of people able to access psychological therapy beyond 25% is a non-negotiable issue. The lack of adequate support causes “dangerously long” waits being faced by the majority, as described by service users (Y.H.P, 2016). Where those suffering in silence face no chance at all until the situation becomes critical. Therefore it cannot come as much of a surprise that 6,581 people committed suicide in the UK and Republic of Ireland in 2014 (Samaritans, 2016).
The YHP is "Calling for innovative and proactive motions" |
Prioritised sustainability and transformation actions (2015) include involving experts by experience (otherwise known as service users), introducing conclusive plans to reduce suicides, as well as putting into place feasible measures to significantly increase provisions of psychological therapy. For which long-term goals should ensure an extra 70,000 people gain access by 2020. Calling for innovative and proactive motions to achieve these targets.
"I believe that young people care about politics and engagement on every level is the democratic right of every UK citizen. Politics should not be a reserve for the wealthy. I also believe that each and every person has mental health. When mental health difficulties occur, people should feel comfortable seeking help, and support should be readily available." - Sam WardOpportunities for in person counseling are few and vary dependent upon location. Paradoxically patients have highlighted they would prefer to discuss these sensitive topics face-to-face (YHP, 2016). Similarly the Independent Mental Health Taskforce (2016) found the average waiting time for child IAPT services is 32 weeks, a delay that is likely to affect patient engagement. Where the speed of accessing professional help in a form they are most comfortable with could have a larger impact on improving their mental health. Where 30% of surveyed patients would describe an in-person drop-in counseling service as extremely useful. In addition to this BACP qualified counselors and psychotherapists are finding it difficult to gain experience towards an accredited status through face-to-face means. These professionals are desperate to help and develop their skills to do so. They need only the opportunity.
Employers are responsible for the physical and mental health of their staff. |
System failures within the context of eating disorders surround assessment methods emphasizing BMI over the severity of disordered thoughts. Creating a notion of not being “sick enough” based upon weight and being told to come back when thinner. This drastically complicates accessing help and aggravates the condition of a vulnerable person. The knock on effects in terms of prolonged and reoccurring treatment needs are increased, before acknowledging that eating disorders have highest mortality rate of mental illnesses from physical health complications. A preventative operation is needed to both reduce the cost to the individual and NHS.
The UK Royal Family have been proactive of their support for mental health care and preventative support |
The ages between 16-25 are crucial for the emergence or further development of mental health issues. Especially considering that the average age of the first onset for psychosis is 22 (Young Minds, 2006). CAHMS currently only runs up until the age of 18 and handoffs between child and adult services do not always run smoothly. Within this many do not receive help. Generating access problems for a specific age range particularly likely to be at risk.
Our research indicates a service wide fundamental need for change towards prevention. To address this Youth Health Parliament have designed the Mental Wealth Initiative which aims to guide a more patient informed and directed service, to get to grips with early intervention for young people when difficulties first arise. Using this progressive approach functions as a basis model adaptable to the needs of the individual and local area.
Presented by Anna Perry
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References:
Independent Mental Health Taskforce to the NHS in England (2016). The five year forward view for mental health. Mental Health Taskforce Strategy.Samaritans (2016). Suicide statistics report 2016 – including data for 2012-2014.
Sustainability and Transformation Plans (2015). STP aide-mémoire: Mental Health and Dementia. NHS.
Mental Health Strategic Partnership (2012). No health without mental health: A guide for clinical commissioning groups.
Youth Health Parliament (2016). Patient feedback on the current UK mental health system.
Young Minds (2006). SOS Stressed out and struggling: Commissioning Mental Health Services for 16-25 year-olds.