Survey shows young people struggle to access treatment and face long delays
Nearly all GPs worry that young people with mental health problems will come to harm because of difficulties in accessing treatment on the NHS, according to a survey.
The poll of UK family doctors found that 99% said they feared that under-18s would come to harm as a direct result of facing long delays to see a specialist and vital care being rationed.
Related: Case study: timely help for teenagers with mental health issues is vital
78% of GPs are worried that too few of their young patients can get treatment for mental ill-health.
86% have seen a rise in the last two years in the number of 11- to 18-year-olds with anxiety.
88% say it is impossible or very difficult for young people to get help with anxiety.
68% are seeing more under-18s who have self-harmed.
In the UK, Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. In the US, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Other international suicide helplines can be found at www.befrienders.org.
Continue reading...from Top stories | The Guardian http://bit.ly/2Sr2lnK
Post a Comment Blogger Facebook