Within an ever-changing society young people are faced with many challenges, challenges that can have a significant impact on their mental health. As we become more focused on recognising that young people also experience difficulties associated with mental health, there is an increased need to ensure we can offer accessible support. There is a fluid parallel process that needs to take place- acknowledging that young people experience mental health difficulties, and actually providing accessible support for all young people. So let’s stop talking about it, and start the ‘doing’.
According to recent findings from the Centre for Mental Health, children and young people with mental health difficulties have to wait on average 10 years between becoming unwell to receiving any help. This huge delay sees young peoples mental health worsening and eventually escalating into a serious crisis. This can lead to a dark permanently cloud hovering over their lives. Parents, teachers and GPs’ attempt to get these young people help, but they are usually unsuccessful. Parents are told that the problems are not severe enough or the waiting list to access the support ranges from months to a year.
‘Untreated’ mental health problems pre-adult age can have a global impact on a young person’s life. Educational opportunities are taken away, relationships start to disintegrate, behaviours that challenge are displayed, and occupational functioning deteriorates. All of this happens whilst the young person is lost and confused within their internal word.
There is also a significant impact on society as a delay in treatment can cost more than £105 billion a year (Centre for Mental Health). Just imagine the positive impact this amount of money could have. Could it be used to provide accessible treatment to minimise the impact of young people experiencing mental health difficulties?
Innovating Minds CIC is passionate about not just raising awareness but also providing accessible psychological support for young people with emotional and mental health needs. It is an inclusive service, so Innovating Minds works within the education, training and employment sectors. The social enterprise creates and nurtures a safe space, this is known as the ‘Mind Space™’ whereby young people, parents’, teachers and employers are supported to help young people achieve their aspirations. Dr Asha Patel (founder of Innovating Minds) says “why don’t we give the help when young people want it, not need it”. Providing accessible psychological support within an early intervention ethos is the backbone of Innovating Minds.
