The Community Relations Model (CoRe): An Integrated Systems Response to Early Mental Health Support for Children and Families in Communities

Abstract

AbstractMental health has traditionally followed a medical illness or deficit model, where distress is individualized and treatment is subsequently aimed at individual children and families. Studies of the incidence of child mental health problems across Europe, United States and the United Kingdom (UK) all identified a significant upward trend in prevalence over the last decade. In the UK, resources have been allocated to the development of child mental health services. One priority area has been the development of preventative mental health services within schools. This chapter argues that a rethink is required in order to respond effectively to the significant increase in mental health need and that the current model does not provide an adequate response. This chapter proposes a relational model, one that works systemically with partners and communities, as opposed to a singular expansion in the provision of individualized treatment. It reimages the construct of mental health using a broad evidence base and then develops service provision from this foundation. This creates a wider community resource base to address mental distress in our society and enables mental health practitioners and organizations to have a wider systemic impact on children, young people and families.