»Ê¼Ò»ªÈË

  1. Home
  2. Key topics

Child mental health

We must work together to improve children's mental health - to put resources into early intervention and prevention, building resilience and ensuring our workforce is trained to spot the signs of mental ill health and equipped to refer and support children.
Woman health professional with a clipboard speaking with a teenage boy, in a school or community centre

Role of paediatricians in child mental health

Childhood mental health problems are common and increasing across the UK. Our position, updated in February 2024, outlines the role for paediatricians in prevention, early recognition and holistic care. It also calls for greater investment, support for child health professionals and government action.
Position statement 2024

Mental health leadership

In spring 2022, we hosted a webinar outlining this position, describing training opportunities, networking with CAMHS and seeking views from children and young people.
Watch webinar

Insights from parents, young people and children on mental health

Being me - resources from care-experienced children and young people
Chatterbox game - kickstarting conversations with a playful look at myths
COVID-19 &Us - supporting mental health in a national crisis
Doctor's pocketbook - talking to young patients about mental health
Emoji card game - prompting young people to discuss their feelings
Icon - medical case

Meeting mental health needs in acute hospitals

The pandemic exacerbated existing pressures on services caring for children and young people presenting with mental ill health. Our joint statement with RCEM and RCPsych recommends how services can work together.
Joint position statement

State of Child Health is our landmark report into the health and wellbeing of children and young people in the UK, which looks at data on child health outcomes - including mental health prevalence and services.
Icon - document with folded corner

Responding to mental health and wellbeing strategy

In July 2022 we responded to the Department of Health and Social Care call for evidence to inform its new 10-year strategy for England. We argue for a holistic and inclusive approach, prioritising early intervention, integration and multidisciplinary working.
Consultation response

Paediatric training in mental health, and committees

Sub-specialty in child mental health
Special Interest (SPIN) modules, including on child mental health
Child Mental Health College Specialty Advisory Committee
Mental Health Advisory Committee

External resources on child mental health

Latest news about child mental health and wellbeing

More news
Health professionals in scrubs walking down hospital corridor
Media response
13 December 2024

Health inequalities rampant in PICU admissions

The Paediatric Intensive Care Audit Network (PICANet) has published a report summarising paediatric critical care activity within paediatric intensive care units (PICU) between 2021 and 2023.

Latest resources about child mental health and wellbeing

More resources