Child & Youth Mental Health Algorithm - GPSC

ChildandYouthMentalHealthPSPModule lives. Patients can be helped to understand that taking treatments helps give themmore control over the illness.Clarification of roles and responsibilitiesThe clarification of roles and responsibilities will vary with the age of the child. Theimportant domains are: taking medication; keeping a record of symptoms;monitoring for side effects; arranging visits with the health care team; institutingemergency interventions if indicated. Discuss each of these items with appropriatefamily members and ensure that each family member understands and agrees totheir role and responsibility. This will not only help engage the family in thetreatment process but it may also improve care by improving treatment process.Feeling at homeThe health provider’s office should be a place in which all family members feel safeand supported. Having space where a family discussion can happen away frompublic view and public hearing is important when providing mental health care.Reception and support staff should be trained in basic understanding of mentaldisorders and in supportive techniques that can help parents and young people feelmore calm and welcomed.Consider the course available at MHFA Canada for Adults who Interact with YouthCourseError!Hyperlinkreferencenotvalid.http://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.ca/EN/course/descriptions/Pages/MHFAforYouth.aspx)that works with children and youth and is available in Canada through theMHCC.Remember that there is a great deal of stigma against people and families who areliving with a mental disorder. It is essential the health provider and staff do notperpetuate stigma. The supportive environment created in the practitioner’s officecan go a long way to combat misperceptions and stigma.Knowing your limitsThe reality is that some patients and families present more challenges than othersand these families will require more intensive interventions – such as familytherapy. Primary care health providers do not usually have the skills or the time toResources - Lifespan of Mental Illnesses1910of