Overcoming traps and challenges in child and adolescent psychiatry

Abstract

Appropriate healthcare and psychological support for children and adolescents is essential for the successful development and good mental health. Unfortunately, this is often a neglected element in the healthcare systems around the world. It is known that approximately half of all adult psychiatric disorders start under the age of 14 and that the prevalence of child and adolescent-onset psychiatric conditions is increasing. The real reason for this increase remains unclear, but it demands our attention as does the care of affected children, adolescents, and their families. Transitions between different age groups need to be made easily navigable for the patients and their families. Many challenges in child and adolescent psychiatry are present, especially in developing countries such as Serbia. A possible solution for overcoming these challenges is uniting the child and adolescent professional societies from all over the world. These societies should work together to develop unified strategies for diagnosis, treatment and support of children affected by psychiatric conditions. By working closely with pediatricians, family physicians, psychologists, nurses, and other professionals, child and adolescent psychiatry can use knowledge and skills to support practice while teaching other professionals how to optimize the utilization of child and adolescent psychiatry services.