The role of technology in Australian youth mental health reform.

The role of technology in Australian youth mental health reform. Aust Health Rev. 2016 Mar 3; Authors: Burns JM, Birrell E, Bismark M, Pirkis J, Davenport TA, Hickie IB, Weinberg MK, Ellis LA Abstract This paper describes the extent and nature of Internet use by young people, with specific reference to psychological distress and help-seeking behaviour. It draws on data from an Australian cross-sectional study of 1400 young people aged 16 to 25 years. Nearly all of these young people used the Internet, both as a source of trusted information and as a means of connecting with their peers and discussing problems. A new model of e-mental health care is introduced that is directly informed by these findings. The model creates a system of mental health service delivery spanning the spectrum from general health and wellbeing (including mental health) promotion and prevention to recovery. It is designed to promote health and wellbeing and to complement face-to-face services to enhance clinical care. The model has the potential to improve reach and access to quality mental health care for young people, so that they can receive the right care, at the right time, in the right way.What is known about the topic? One in four young Australians experience mental health disorders, and these often emerge in adolescence and young adulthood. Young people are also prominent users of technology and the Internet. Effective mental health reform must recogni...
Source: Australian Health Review - Category: Hospital Management Authors: Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research