Debate: Is there a true global children and young people mental health crisis? Fact or Fiction: A South African Perspective

Abstract

The article seeks to discuss the complexities that prevail in South Africa in attempting to understand the debate about whether there is a true global children and young people mental health crisis in the country. In the absence of reliable and current epidemiological data and prevalence studies, assumptions can only be made about the extent of the crisis when considering the prevailing social determinants of mental disorders. The lack of investment, limited child and adolescent mental health resources, and inadequate access to treatment complicate this crisis as many children and young people go untreated. The author argues that the debate should be focused on the need to address the risk factors that perpetuate the ever-increasing mental health concerns of children and youth in South Africa.