23rd January 2012.

Senator Deirdre Clune welcomes focus on youth mental health services in HSE National Service Plan 2012.

Fine Gael Senator Deirdre Clune has today welcomed the provisions in the HSE National Service Plan 2012 relating to treatment for children and young people. “Often, the symptoms of mental illness first present themselves during childhood and adolescence. Early intervention through community services can really make the difference when it comes to preventing the escalation of these illnesses.”
“I also hope that the 35 million euro worth of funding ring-fenced for mental health initiatives in Budget 2012 can help to end the damaging practice of placing children and young people in adult psychiatric units,” Senator Clune stated. “It is vital that we have dedicated child and adolescent primary care facilities and inpatient units made available. I fully support Minister Kathleen Lynch in her determination to see these opened in 2012.”
“In the first nine months of 2011, 105 minors were admitted to adult units. The government is focused on reducing this amount drastically in 2012 with a view to ending the practice altogether. The placement of young people in adult wards is detrimental to their recovery. Age-appropriate treatment facilities which are community-based give young sufferers the best chance at treating their illnesses before inpatient treatment becomes necessary.”
“According to the World Health Organization, up to 20 per cent of this vulnerable group has experience of a disabling mental health condition. The National Disability Survey from 2006 found that 9,900 of those who were aged 17 or younger had an emotional, psychological or mental health disability. This funding will enable appropriate treatment to be given to those children who are suffering from mental health issues.”
This announcement is a major step in realising the vision set out in the Programme for Government for mental health facilities in this country.
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For more information, please contact:
Senator Deirdre Clune
087 2397539
www.deirdreclune.ie