Unmet Needs in Youth Mental Health: Transforming Models of Care to Improve Outcomes

Abstract

Mental health is a key health issue faced by young people globally. Young people bear the largest burden of mental illness, with the majority of adult-type mental illnesses emerging during the transition from childhood to adulthood. This developmental timing of mental illness onset can significantly disrupt a young person’s life course. Despite young people being disproportionately impacted by mental illness, they have the worst access to mental health care. Traditional models of care are out-dated and reflect neither the pattern of mental disorder onset nor the unique cultural and developmental needs of young people. Although reform in the delivery of youth mental health services has gained traction, this transformational task is still in its infancy. Here, we outline current service innovations and describe future directions to enhance and strengthen youth models of care.