Service innovations to reduce the risk of premature mortality in NHS Lanarkshire Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS)

Abstract

Psychological problems are associated with substantially reduced life expectancy. Addressing the clinical needs of children and young people presenting with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and eating disorders is critical for preventing premature mortality and promoting wellbeing. However, there may be some uncertainty around how well Scottish Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) achieve this goal. This article describes some of the key innovations that have been introduced in NHS Lanarkshire CAMHS over recent years to meet the clinical needs of children and young people at risk of premature mortality. As well as being a moral imperative, addressing the needs of this important population is consistent with the CAMHS NHS Scotland national service specification and the Scottish NHS Recovery Plan following the Covid-19 pandemic. We have endeavoured to develop and deliver high-quality clinical services for children and young people at risk of premature mortality and are committed to continually improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the services we offer.