Supporting Young Minds: Mental Health Interventions and the Role of Social Work for Children and Young People

Mental health problems for children and adolescents are continuing to rise, with a risk of poor outcomes into adulthood for those affected. For children who are vulnerable, the risk of deteriorating mental health increases further. Preventative measures are needed to help improve mental health in children and young people, particularly for those experiencing adversity or a lack of support. A systematic review by McGovern et al. (2022) explored secondary preventative interventions for reducing mental health problems in children and young people who are at greater risk of developing mental health problems than the general population. The review provided an evidence overview of effective interventions, factors of effectiveness, and the characteristics of the young people who would benefit. This commentary explores the findings in the context of social work practice, exploring how social work can support vulnerable children and young people at risk of mental health problems. The challenges of providing support in a system under pressure are also considered, and the vulnerability of young people transitioning between child and adult mental health services.