Youth Workers in Mental Health Care

Patti Ranahan,Rennee Pellisier

doi:10.5195/jcycw.2015.84

Abstract

Youth workers’ role in mental health care requires articulation and further examination. Establishing a role in the provision of mental health care leads to queries regarding youth workers’ mental health literacy and what knowledge is required to have a presence among other mental health care providers. The aim of this paper is to articulate the current role of youth workers in mental health care, examine emerging perspectives in research and education on mental health literacy development, and encourage fresh directions for future education and research that are aligned within the physical and philosophical position of the youth work field.

Highlights

Two decades ago, White (1996) proposed that child and youth care professionals could participate in preventing youth suicide, “by virtue of their proximity to potentially vulnerable youth across a wide array of settings” (p. 48)
Emerging research on mental health literacy (MHL) and youth help-seeking preferences have established a need for closer examination of the role and process of youth worker engagement with young people who may be experiencing mental health concerns
Youth workers have a role in caring for young people experiencing mental health concerns

Summary

Introduction

Two decades ago, White (1996) proposed that child and youth care professionals could participate in preventing youth suicide, “by virtue of their proximity to potentially vulnerable youth across a wide array of settings” (p. 48). Explore the current role of youth workers in mental health care from both insider and outsider perspectives located within the literature In examining this role, we draw upon the help-seeking literature that provides information on young people’s preferences for obtaining support when struggling with mental health related concerns. Through increased understanding, youth workers can take up the position of collaborative partners with young people, families, and allied professionals in providing mental health care. This is the first paper that we are aware of to take up a critical examination of the role youth workers have in the provision of mental health care. In relation to the provision of mental health care, those outside the profession are defining youth workers as gatekeepers—a role that requires further discussion

Objectives

Conclusion