Child Mental Health Research Articles

Remember Darwin: Individualism, Neuroscience and Language

Individualism has been a constant theme of the development of child and adolescent mental health since at least 1870. Freud’s Scientific Project is an exercise in neurological individualism as have many subsequent neuroscience projects. Just because bodies contain neurological and chemical circuits, it does not mean that mammalian animals are discrete. Mammals live in communication networks and humans have evolved to make those networks linguistic. It is species adaptations that are manifest in the lives of single members of a species and provide for fitness to environment. The many biological scientists that call themselves neurologists have been prone to misunderstand this Darwinian premise.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in social work practice

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into social work practice is transforming the landscape of service delivery and decision-making. This paper explores how these technologies enhance case management, predictive analytics, and resource allocation in critical areas such as child welfare, mental health, and substance abuse treatment. Key trends highlighted include the use of AI-based predictive analytics to identify at-risk populations and facilitate early interventions, as well as the deployment of chatbots and virtual assistants for providing accessible mental health counselling and social support. Furthermore, the paper addresses ethical considerations and challenges associated with AI implementation, particularly the potential biases in algorithms that may affect the assessment of social needs. Additionally, the integration of AI tools into social work education and training is examined to prepare future professionals for a technology-driven environment. By analysing the current applications of Natural Language Processing (NLP) for client data analysis, AI-powered software for predictive risk assessments, and automated case management systems, this paper advocates for a balanced approach to AI adoption, ensuring that the core values of social work, such as equity and social justice, remain central to practice. Ultimately, this exploration underscores the potential of AI and ML to enhance social work outcomes while also emphasizing the necessity of ethical frameworks and ongoing training for practitioners.

Health promotion interventions for children and adolescents using e-health: a systematic review

Abstract Background The utilization of e-health in healthcare interventions has become increasingly prevalent due to its cost-effectiveness. Nevertheless, there is a paucity of evidence regarding the use of e-health in children, as the majority of e-health interventions are focused on adults. This study aimed to identify the components and effects of e-health intervention for the promotion of children’s health and to suggest strategies for their implementation. Methods A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. A literature review of relevant studies published between January 2013 and November 2023 was conducted. A search of databases including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Review Library was conducted using a combination of medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords. A qualitative appraisal of the studies was conducted using the revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials (RoB 2). Results Sixteen studies were selected. Most studies showed good methodological quality. The majority of studies (n = 15) focused on improving children’s physical health, while only one study focused on mental health. There were a variety of components to the intervention, including internet education, web-based home-exercise, serious games, mobile apps, email counseling, and active video games, and only one type of intervention was provided, or a combination with additional methods such as phone calls and counseling. A review of the literature indicates that e-health interventions have been effective in increasing children’s physical activity, reducing weight, relieving stress, and reducing depression. Conclusions This study identified the effectiveness of e-health interventions for improving children’s physical and mental health. The use of e-health to promote children’s health should be actively developed and implemented in a variety of clinical and community settings. Key messages • E-health interventions have been demonstrated to be an effective means of improving the physical and mental health of children and adolescents. • It is recommended that health promotion interventions utilizing e-health be developed and tested in a variety of communities and settings for children and adolescents.

Inequities in child health in Luxembourg

Abstract Background In Luxembourg, despite its economic prosperity, 28.6 % of children are estimated to be at the risk of poverty. Research has shown that growing up with socioeconomic disadvantage is associated with worse physical and mental health in childhood. We explore the association of socioeconomic status with health, health behaviours and access to healthcare in Luxembourg for children up to age twelve. Methods We used data from 2014 to 2022 for 11-12 year old children from the Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) survey as well as social security data from Luxembourg for a similar time period and children 0 to 12 years old. To assess socioeconomic status, we used information on self-perceived household wealth for the HBSC results and stratified health and health behaviours by well-off, average, or less well-off households. For the social security data, we stratified access to care indicators by equivalized household income quintiles. Results We found that physical activity levels, nutritional quality and daily routines such as eating breakfast and brushing teeth are significantly lower in children from less affluent families. For example, 61% of 11-12-year-old children from well-off families reported eating breakfast every day, but only 41% of children from less well-off families. Only 23% of 11-12 year olds from less affluent families rated their health as excellent, compared to 52% of children from affluent families. There were similarly large differences for multiple health complaints, with 63% of children from less affluent families reporting this indicator for psychosomatic problems, compared to 34% of children from affluent families. We did not find differences in the use of pre- and postnatal care visits. Conclusions Socioeconomic differences in child health, mental health and health behaviours are large, with children from poorer households being in worse physical and mental health and less likely to report positive health behaviours. Key messages • Many children in Luxembourg face socioeconomic challenges that are adversely associated with health and health behaviours. The underlying reasons require further attention to improve child health. • Children from poorer backgrounds are in significantly worse mental health than children from better off families in Luxembourg.

Mental health problems identified in early school age and later mental health problems and disorders

Abstract Background Poor mental health in childhood and adolescence youth is an important public health challenge. We aimed to examine the prospective association between mental health problems among primary school children and later diagnosed mental disorders and mental health problems in youth. Methods A prospective cohort study of children participating in school health nurse examination during first years of primary school (approx. 6 years) in 17 municipalities in the capital region of Copenhagen, Denmark, with follow-up until their 16th birthday. Baseline data included information from national population registers and school health nurse records. Outcome variables: mental disorders diagnosed at hospital from approx. age 6 until 16 years (N = 6,930) and school health nurse records of mental health problems at approx. age 16 (N = 11,250). Results Problematic relations to peers in early primary school was associated with later neurodevelopmental disorders, including intellectual disability, autism-spectrum disorder and disorders of hyperactivity and inattention (AOR=4.14, 95% CI 2.15-7.97), and poor home related well-being in youth (AOR=1.67, 95% CI 1.02-2.74). Poor school well-being in early primary school was associated with poor school well-being ten years later (AOR=1.67, 95% CI 1.19-2.34) as well as problematic relations to peers (AOR=1.83, 95% CI 1.08-3.10). Further poor general well-being in early primary school was associated with problematic relations to peers in youth (AOR=2.21, 95% CI 1.17-4.18). Conclusions School health nurses identify a group of children in the early years of primary school with mental health problems and an increased risk of later mental health problems and disorders, and therefore they play an important role in the early identification of children at risk. Key messages • Children with problematic relations to peers have up to a fourfold increased risk of later mental disorders. • The school health nurses play an important role in the early identification of children at risk of later mental health problems.

Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Child Development in South America: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have garnered attention globally for their detrimental effects on children’s development, such as lower communication, gross and fine motor, and personal-social domains. While extensively studied in high-income countries, there remains a gap in understanding their prevalence and impact in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This review aimed to identify, evaluate, and summarize the findings of an association between ACEs and children’s developmental and mental health outcomes in South America Methods A systematic review was conducted to investigate the association between ACEs and childhood development in South America. Databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts, Literatura Latino Americana em Ciências da Saúde, IBECS and CINAHL were searched. Selection criteria encompassed studies from Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Venezuela, Chile, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Guyana and Suriname examining the effects of ACEs on developmental outcomes and mental health disorders in children under 18 years old. Quality assessment aligned with World Health Organization standards was employed. Results Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, with most categorized as low or very low quality. While the majority demonstrated a significant association between ACEs and developmental or mental health outcomes, a few studies reported null findings. Challenges in study quality, such as small sample sizes and selection bias, were identified. Conclusions Despite limitations in study quality, findings underscore the impact of ACEs on child development and mental health in South America. Because of the low quality of the existent studies the next steps should be to grasp a greater understanding of the issue. This review also highlights the urgency for further research and targeted interventions to mitigate the long-term consequences of ACEs in this region. Key messages • ACEs profoundly affect child development and mental health in South America, necessitating urgent attention and intervention. • Addressing the impact of ACEs in South America is critical for fostering healthier developmental trajectories and enhancing public health outcomes.

Electromagnetic fields exposure and neuropsychological effects in young people

Abstract Background In recent years, there has been a large increase in the use of communication/connected devices and technologies. This raises a question about radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) exposure levels and neuropsychological effects of RF-EMF in young people. The aim of this study was to assess the pattern of use of communication/connected devices and technologies and its impact on cognition and mental health of early school age children in Poland. Methods The study population consists of 293 children from Polish Mother and Child Cohort (REPRO_PL). The study was based on questionnaire data covering type and duration of usage of communication/connected devices and technologies by mothers during pregnancy and children at age of 7 years. The environmental exposure to RF-EMF was also taken into account. Based on such data RF-EMF exposure was assessed. Child emotional and behavioral assessment was done by Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire whereas IQ and psychomotor development of children was performed by psychologist using Intelligence and Development Scales. Results About 75% of young people used smartphones (2% for voice calls and 7% for Internet browsing at least one hour per day). Tablet or laptop use was declared by 59% and 56% of respondents, respectively. More than 10% declared that they use these devices at least one hour a day. The main factors determining the use of new technology devices were parental age and education (p < 0.05) and the age at which youth started school education (p = 0.06). In multivariable regression model higher level of RF-EMF was associated with total difficulties and emotional problems (p < 0.05). Conclusions This study presents the pattern of use of new technology devices by early school age children in Poland and the association between the exposure to RF-EMF and child mental health. Key messages • The use of communication/connected devices and technologies is common among young people in Poland. • The exposure to RF-EMF can increase mental health problems among young people.

The changing association between pandemic-related stressors and child and adolescent mental health during the waning phase of the COVID-19 pandemic

This study examined the relation between pandemic-related stressors and mental health among young people (YP) in India during two time points in the waning phase of the pandemic. We use data from two cross-sectional waves of over 20,000 YP aged 5–19 in February 2022, during the peak of the Omicron wave, and October 2022, during a reduction in infections and easing of restrictions. COVID illness/death in the family’s social network, current lockdown stringency, and significant change in household income were examined in relation to adult respondents’ reports of YP internalizing symptoms. Internalizing symptoms declined slightly from February to October 2022. COVID-19 illness/death in the family’s network was generally associated with more internalizing symptoms. Higher lockdown stringency was associated with lower levels of internalizing symptoms. YP in households with increases in income tended to have more internalizing symptoms. Many associations were driven by older adolescents and were stronger during the earlier (Feb-2022) than later (Oct-2022) data collection time-points. The findings illustrate the importance of anchoring results within a study’s specific geographic context, including concurrent events during the study period. Importantly, findings that may initially seem counterintuitive ultimately illuminate the dynamic and complex processes underlying child and adolescent mental health.

Healthy Community Healthy Mind: An Evidence-based Culturally Sensitive Aboriginal Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program

Healthy Community Healthy Mind: An Evidence-based Culturally Sensitive Aboriginal Child and Adolescent Mental Health Program

Estimated lifetime impact of a school-based intervention for mental health: A microsimulation study

Abstract Background The prevalence of childhood mental health problems is increasing. School-based interventions have the potential to reduce poor mental health and mental health inequalities. Our aim was to estimate the long-term costs and benefits of the Incredible Years Teacher® Classroom Management (IY-TCM) intervention in primary schools compared to no intervention. Methods LifeSim, an existing microsimulation model, was used to estimate the lifetime costs and benefits of IY-TCM by linking short-term changes in SDQ based on a previous trial in primary schools (Cluster RCT: 2075 children aged 4-9 years with a 30-month follow-up) to long-term health, social, economic and wellbeing outcomes. Benefits were measured in quality adjusted life years and wellbeing adjusted life years. We examined subgroup based on deprivation, conduct scores and parental depression. Results Microsimulation modelling estimated small gains in lifetime outcomes including reduced conduct disorder in adolescence and depression in adulthood. Estimates indicate IY-TCM could be cost-effective with a large amount of uncertainty (Net monetary benefit (NMB)=£21, Estimated CI = -£195, £240). IY-TCM was estimated to be more cost-effective for those with high deprivation (NMB = £231, Estimation CI - -£99, £231) and high conduct problem scores (NMB=£315, Estimated CI = £45, £483). Total net social benefit for a typical year size group was estimated to be £111m. Conclusions IY-TCM could be cost-effective compared to no intervention with a large estimated social benefit supporting wider implementation of IY-TCM, but results indicate a large amount of uncertainty. Greater benefits and higher certainty of cost-effectiveness for children with conduct problems and those living in a deprived area suggest IY-TCM has the potential to reduce mental health inequalities and may be more cost-effective for schools with higher deprivation and/or a high prevalence of conduct problems. Key messages • The Incredible Years Teacher Classroom Management intervention for mental health in primary schools could be considered cost-effective but there is a large amount of uncertainty. • Greater benefits for children with conduct problems and those living in a deprived area indicates the intervention has the potential to reduce mental health inequalities.

Association of childhood mental health and cardiovascular risk in adolescence and young adulthood

Abstract Introduction Mental health (MH), and in particular depression, is linked bi-directionally to cardiovascular disease through biological as well as behavioral pathways. Low MH has been associated with behaviors associated closely with cardiovascular risk (CVR) factors, such as reduced physical activity and sleep disturbances. It is not clear at what age the relation between MH and CVR begins to manifest and if MH in the young is also associated with vascular remodeling, operationalized as carotid-intima media thickness (CIMT). Methods We investigated the longitudinal association between childhood MH problems (age 3 to 17) and CVR factors as well as CIMT from carotid sonography in 4,361 14 to 28-year-olds of the KiGGS cohort. Using linear regression analyses adjusted for socioeconomic status, we analyzed the association of the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) score with systolic blood pressure (SBP), body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol (TC), and CIMT in z-scores by sex and age. Additional cross-sectional analyses included scores of the Mental Health Inventory (MHI-5) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) in young adulthood. Results Childhood SDQ scores were significantly associated with SBP, BMI and TC one decade later (-0.03 ≤ ß ≥ 0.02). Cross-sectionally, no association of MHI-5 scores in young adults with CVR factors was found. PHQ-9 scores in young adults were associated significantly with SBP and BMI (-0.26≤ ß≥ 0.01). The investigated MH problems from childhood to young adulthood were not linked to CIMT. Conclusions Our results confirm an early association of MH with the examined CVR factors. However, we could not find evidence for an association between MH and vascular remodeling in this population-based sample of adolescents and young adults. Our results emphasize the importance of prevention strategies focusing on both, physical and MH of the young, in order to prevent vascular damage later in life. Key messages • Our results show an early association of childhood mental health with the examined cardiovascular risk factors systolic blood pressure, body mass index and total cholesterol one decade later. • Our results confirm the importance of prevention strategies focusing on both, physical and mental health of the young.

1.Y.2. Children’s mental health problems explode. Can exposome research offer a solution?

Abstract Background A week-long, multidisciplinary workshop at the Lorentz Institute explored the expectations of exposome research on child health. Exposome research investigates how combined exposures affect health. Currently we see an increase in adolescent mental health problems in Europe. We explore at the workshop if and how exposome research can be part of the solution to tackle this health issue. Findings The workshop aims were to analyze how monitoring data from exposome research can be best used for improving health policy in relation to improving (environmental) health policy in relation to children’s health. By taking a deep dive into solution-finding, we explored creative solutions to better utilize existing exposome data from digital data platforms, such as cohort data. And to facilitate working across disciplines using innovative tools of working transdisciplinary across research, policymakers and other professionals. Furthermore, we study how to enhance, harmonize and interpretation of data on child health. Furthermore, we look how child health depends not only on the quality of a healthcare system, but also on the magnitude of negative or positive influencing factors, such as social and environmental factors. Identifying such stressors and reducing their impact through adequate policies can improve child health on local, national, or even global scales. One innovative way of identifying such stressors is the exposome approach. The exposome approach is the characterization of the non-genetic drivers of health and disease. The exposome comprises aspects of the Built environment (characteristics of where we live); the Social environment (with whom we interact, social networks and income); the Physio-Chemical environment (chemical and environmental factors exposure) and the Lifestyle/Food environment (what we eat, how much we exercise) over the entire life-course. Workshop aims: - Provide a background on the urgency of adolescent mental health problems in Europe. - Compare approaches of stakeholders and researchers: stakeholders’ input from the practical field can shape the approach of the research process. The second benefit is to derive implications for creating effective interventions and policies to prevent adverse effects of environmental exposures and to foster positive health in children and later in life. - Explore existing interventions on child health for issues, experiences and possible solutions to the governance and organization of health adaptation in urban and social planning. - How to act in the process of research to intervention to public policies. The workshop consists of three short presentations followed by interactive panel discussions. We end with the audience actively engaging in the debate, as well as entering their questions. The workshop will end by identifying the current and future necessary roles, responsibilities, capacities of the public health researchers, policymakers, and professionals for child health protection in complicated exposure settings. Key messages • Child mental health issues are increasing in an unexplainable way. • Engaging stakeholders into an exposome research process can help to form a child health strategy in Europe.

Parental Insightfulness, Parental Sensitivity, Parent and Child Mental Health, and Attachment in Autistic Children: A Systematic Review

AbstractThis systematic review aimed to examine whether parental insightfulness is associated with parental sensitivity, parent and child mental health, and attachment in autistic children. Eligible articles used a quantitative research design and included participants who were parents or caregivers of a child diagnosed with autism and who completed a measure of parental insightfulness. Eight papers (six studies) met inclusion criteria. Parental insightfulness was associated with higher parental sensitivity and attachment security. No studies investigated associations between parental insightfulness and parent mental health. Although research is limited, parental insightfulness appears to be associated with parental sensitivity and child attachment in families of autistic children. More research is required to confirm whether these relationships exist cross-culturally, and with different caregivers.

Innovation awards aims to advance MH solutions for youth

Observing a need to fund and advance transformative mental health care solutions for children and young adults across the country, Morgan Stanley announced earlier this year the third cohort of winners of its Alliance for Children's Mental Health Innovation Awards.

Benefits of Pet Therapy for Children and Young Adults

Abstract: With the development of psychology, the mental health of children is paid more attention than before. Reducing attachment to parents and anxiety are common mental issues in children. People need to focus on the mental health of the children. There have been several studies about the function of pets and how they positively or negatively support adults' mental condition. With the increasing number of pets owned, pets play an important role in several families. Pets play an essential role in affecting children's mental health. Pet therapy is an example of how pets impact the mental condition of children. This research focuses on how pets can work in pet therapy to help children reduce mental stress and how pets in their daily lives can help young adults and children perform better social development. The research reviews several previous study papers about pets' influence on children's mental and social development. The research finds that pet therapy can help children with physical health and disabled children reduce their mental stress from the environment and society. In their daily lives, children in families with pets benefit from socio-emotional development and get social support from pets.

Interpersonal Relationship Between Parents and Its Impact on Mental Health of Children

The family plays an important role in the development of a person as an active participant in the life of society. When a child is born and grows up in a family, the system of relationships in the family that has been developing for years has an impact on the child's psychology. They are influenced by the interpersonal relationships of adults in the family with each other and with their children, i.e. communication, behavior, and attitude toward the child. This effect ultimately affects the child's way of understanding the world, his attitude toward the environment, and even his way of thinking. It would be wrong to consider this effect as negative or positive in the same direction. Because under certain conditions, a child's susceptibility to family influence can have different results depending on how he reacts to these influences. If the educational influence exerted by adults can be compared with existing social norms, the child will most likely follow the model that is considered positive for him. But life experience and observations show that the educational power of the family, especially in the child's preschool age, is high, and during this period the influence of adults in the family on the child can be of primary importance. Therefore, we have sufficient grounds to speak about a direct connection between personality traits and even the formation of a way of thinking and methods of educational influence in the family. Keywords: interpersonal relationship, parents, mental health of children, development

Editorial: Rising stars in child mental health and interventions

Editorial: Rising stars in child mental health and interventions

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presentations among referrals to a child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) inpatient unit in Ireland.

This retrospective chart review aimed to identify the intersection between young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)'s needs and CAMHS inpatient service needs. A retrospective chart review was conducted on all referrals to a CAMHS inpatient unit over three years (n = 352). Referrals which specified a formal diagnosis or suspected diagnosis of ASD were identified (n = 111), and basic demographic data were collected. Young people with either a formal or suspected diagnosis of ASD referred to the unit presented with a wide range of co-occurring conditions. Of these young people, 30 were admitted to the unit and only 6 of them were engaged with an ASD specialist service. Young people with diagnosed or suspected ASD were more likely to be admitted if they presented with suicidality. Males with diagnosed or suspected ASD were more likely to have a diagnosis of OCD while females with diagnosed or suspected ASD were more likely to present with eating and feeding disorders and personality development difficulties. Findings highlight the lack of a clear care pathway for young people with co-occurring autism or suspected autism and complex mental health problems.

Prospective analysis of sex differences and factors associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviours in young people from the MILESTONE Italian sample

Suicide is a significant leading cause of death among young people, particularly those struggling with mental disorders. The present study utilised data from 230 young people (aged 16–18 years) undergoing a transitional care process from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services to Adult Mental Health Services within the MILESTONE European project (2014–2019), a longitudinal cluster randomised controlled trial. The objectives of this study were to monitor temporal patterns of general health and social functioning over two years, to detect sex differences, and to identify factors associated with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviours (STB) at the first and last time points. The results demonstrate a decrease in STB over the two-year follow-up period among all participants. Females exhibited a higher prevalence of STB across all time points, whereas males only exhibited STB at the nine-month follow-up. The most influential factors associated with STB were previous suicide attempts and mood disorders at baseline, and mood disorders and relational problems at the end of follow-up. These findings emphasise the importance of monitoring STB and informing young people undergoing a transitional care period about its key risk factors. Moreover, sex differences in STB suggest the need for different preventive strategies for males and females.

State Minimum Wage and Mental Health Among Children and Adolescents

Mental health disorders are increasing for children and adolescents in the US, with those in poverty having especially high rates. More evidence is needed about the association between economic policies, such as the minimum wage, and children's mental health. To test the association between minimum wages and the mental health of children and adolescents. This repeated cross-sectional, population-based US study used data from 2001 to 2022. Participants included state-representative, stratified random samples of children from the National Survey of Children's Health and adolescents from the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System. Data analysis was performed from January 2023 to August 2024. State minimum wage policies. A total of 15 outcomes reported by caregivers or adolescents from survey data were evaluated: depression, anxiety, attention deficit disorder and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, behavior disorders, mood symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, considered and attempted suicide, any unmet health care and mental health care, alcohol and marijuana use, physical fights, school absenteeism, and paid employment. The associations between minimum wage policies and mental health were tested using 2-way fixed-effects models, lifetime minimum wage models, and difference-in-differences models with event studies, all with state, year, and birth cohort fixed effects. Additional controls included individual-level demographics and state-level health insurance and welfare policies. Analyses included 239 534 children (aged 3-17 years; 117 111 girls [48.9%]) from the 2016 to 2022 National Survey of Children's Health, and 1 453 043 adolescents (aged 12-18 years; 711 380 girls [49.0%]) from the 2001 to 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System. Across diverse modeling approaches, increases in minimum wages were not associated with clear, consistent improvements in mental health. For example, in 2-way fixed-effects models, a $1 increase in the minimum wage was not associated with changes in rates of depression (0.06 percentage points [pp]; 95% CI, -0.11 to 0.23 pp; P = .48), unmet mental health care (0.13 pp; 95% CI, -0.04 to 0.30 pp; P = .14), or attempted suicide (-0.17 pp; 95% CI, -0.47 to 0.13 pp; P = .26). There also were no clear improvements when stratifying by household income, parental education, race and ethnicity, nativity, or urbanicity. In this repeated cross-sectional study, changes in minimum wage policies over the past 2 decades were not accompanied by clear improvements in children's and adolescents' mental health. More evidence is needed on policy approaches to improve the mental well-being of children, particularly those from economically disadvantaged families.