Accessing Appropriate Support And Early Intervention As A...

Accessing appropriate support and early intervention is widely recognized as a protective factor for youth mental health concerns, improving quality of life and overall success (Rickwood, Deane, Wilson, 2007). As approximately 70% of adults living with a mental illness experience the onset of symptoms during their teenage years, it is imperative that youth become comfortable accessing help (Kessler, Berglund, Demler et al., 2005). YouthNet Rà ©seauAdo was founded in response to The Canadian Youth Mental Health and Illness Survey conducted by Dr. Ian G. Manion and Dr. Simon Davidson (CMHA, 1993). The 1993 national survey asked individuals between the ages of 13 and 18 about their knowledge of mental health and mental illness. Survey†¦show more content†¦Examining recent research will help to understand current trends in youth help-seeking behavior with regards to accessing professional services, family/friends, web-based platforms, or other outlets. The implications of current research are vital for making informed decisions regarding interventions aimed at increasing early youth help-seeking behavior. Barriers to accessing formal supports Mental health professionals (e.g. general practitioners, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, nurses, psychotherapists, school guidance counsellors, etc.) are ideal supports for those struggling with their mental health. These professionals are trained to assess, treat, monitor, support, and connect individuals to appropriate mental health resources. Despite these qualifications, a wide range of studies suggest that youth aversion to seeking qualified help continues to be a barrier to care (Findlay Sunderland, 2014; Henrik, Kjetil, Arnstein, 2006; Reavley, Cvetkovski, Jorm, Lubman, 2010; Rickwood et al., 2007). Based on the findings of the 2014 Canadian Community Health Survey, a Statistics Canada Health Report was issued to give context to both professional and informal mental health supports across the country. The survey was completed by 4013 Canadian youth aged 15-24 and asked questions pertaining to whether or not youth had seen or spoken to anyone concerning their mental health, emotions, or drug/alcohol use during