14.L. Workshop: Determinants of family mental health

Abstract

Abstract Over the past decade, the demographic composition of the population is rapidly changing. This has a huge impact on family members, especially on youth (10-25years). Youth is a formative period in which young people might be especially vulnerable. Multiple physical, emotional and social changes, including exposure to poverty, abuse, or violence, can make adolescents vulnerable to mental health problems. Promoting psychological well-being and protecting youth from adverse experiences and risk factors that may impact their potential to thrive in later life are critical for their mental health not only during adolescence but also in adulthood. Supportive environments in the family, in the wider community and at a global level are important. Multiple factors determine mental health outcomes in youth. Violence (including wars and conflicts, child abuse and harsh parenting), and socioeconomic problems are risks to mental health of youth. In order to address the mental health needs of vulnerable youth and families with youth, increasing knowledge about factors influencing mental health in this age group is imperative. This international workshop will be focused on addressing mental health issues of families and youth. The presentations will focus on 1) self-identified mental problems in a rural area of Germany (Marta Natan); 2) the factors associated with child abuse and the consequences of child abuse in a representative sample from Norway (Gertrud Sofie Hafstad); 3) transit experiences and mental health of unaccompanied refugee children (Ilse Derluyn) and 4) suicidal behaviour and violence among young people (Marija Jakubauskiene). Key messages Determinants of youth mental health can be identified to address common mental disorders in youth. Youth and family mental health cannot be fully addressed without the dignity that is upheld by human rights.