Five-year review of adolescent mental health usage in Singapore.
ANNALS OF THE ACADEMY OF MEDICINE, SINGAPORE 2003;
32:7-11. [PMID:
12625091]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION
To provide a review of adolescent mental health service utilisation in a child and adolescent mental health outpatient clinic in Singapore.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Data from all new adolescent cases seen over a 5-year period in the Child Guidance Clinic were analysed. A review of services provided is also included.
RESULTS
Adolescent mental health usage has been on an increase with a rise in the number of cases diagnosed with depression. There has also been an increase in the number of forensic cases seen in the department.
CONCLUSIONS
There is a growing demand for adolescent mental health services. As the demands and stresses on today's youth increase, there is likely to be a continued increase in the demand for such services. The challenge in the future is to provide adolescent mental health services in cost-effective packages that will meet the needs as well as stay financially viable.
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