Provoking Evolution in Child and Youth Mental Health in Canada

Approximately 14-25% of Canadian children and youth have a diagnosable mental disorder. Fewer than 25% of those with such disorders receive specialised services. Even for those receiving services, there is no guarantee that the interventions provided are effective or based on any credible evidence. It is time that child and youth mental health be recognised as the health priority that it truly is. The barriers to meaningful change in child and youth mental health are many and include historical, attitudinal, cultural, financial, and systemic considerations. True change will require creativity, innovation, collaboration, and leadership. Mindsets need to be shifted and the status quo needs to be challenged. Canadian psychologists have skillsets that should be critical in accelerating change in child and youth mental health. We should not shy away from taking on leadership roles to provoke such change. Examples of where this is occurring and opportunities for further action are profiled.