Mental health, WHO Europe: "One in seven children and adolescents lives with the problem."

One in seven children and adolescents in Europe lives with a mental health problem . This is highlighted in a new report on this topic , produced by WHO Europe through the work of the Office on Quality of Care and Patient Safety in Athens and the Mental Health and Wellbeing (MHW).

The report collects, for the first time, comprehensive data on the state of mental health among children and adolescents in the Region (53 member countries). According to the document , "women are disproportionately affected, with one in four girls aged 15 to 19 living with a mental health disorder. Suicide remains the leading cause of death among young people aged 15 to 29. "

Furthermore, according to the document, " the prevalence of mental disorders among children and adolescents aged 0 to 19 has increased by a third in the last 15 years. Yet," the report highlights, "health services have failed to keep pace with this growing demand." According to the document, "there is only one psychiatrist for every 76,000 children and adolescents."

"This report is a wake-up call for the Region. Every child and young person has the right to mental health support and high-quality care. By acting now, countries can build resilient systems that help future generations thrive," observes João Breda, Head of the Office on Quality of Care and Patient Safety in Athens. According to Ledia Lazëri, Regional Advisor for Mental Health at WHO Europe, "This is the first time that WHO Europe has brought together comprehensive data on child and adolescent mental health in a single document. Researchers, policymakers, and clinicians can use it to inform decisions for service development, policy development, monitoring, and evaluation. This historic report represents a breakthrough, drawing long-overdue attention to a growing priority that will shape the future of our Region."