Children and Young People's Priorities for Mental Health Research in Northern Ireland

Abstract

Introduction: There are a number of factors contributing to the poor mental health of children and young people (CYP) specific to life in Northern Ireland (NI). Prevention and early intervention are of critical importance to the mental health and well-being of CYP. Policy decisions and service provision in the health and education sectors must be informed by research so that we can understand the factors affecting the mental health of young people and develop effective policy responses. This study examines the perceptions of young people in NI regarding mental health research priorities. Methods: CYP who live in NI and are aged between 11 and 25 were invited to contribute to this priority setting exercise. A short anonymous online survey asked: ‘What do you think is the most important question that researchers should be trying to answer about the mental health and wellbeing of young people in NI? You may submit more than one question.’ Two-hundred and seventy-nine questions were submitted from 147 respondents. The priorities were then further discussed and expanded through focus groups with young people. Results: The study identified 12 research priorities. Using thematic analysis, these were grouped into four themes: (i) Ensuring that the voices of young people in NI are heard, (ii) Understanding and addressing the root causes, extent and impact of mental health challenges in young people, (iii) Creating accessible and effective youth mental health services in NI and (iv) Fostering a whole-school approach to mental health and resilience. Conclusions: The research priorities of young people are discussed in relation to current governmental strategic policies and statistics. Suggestions are put forward regarding how these research priorities may be addressed.