In light of this, this mental health week, the RACP is calling on the health sector to come together and develop more efficient, integrated and responsive models of care for children and young people with developmental, behavioural or mental health problems.
The RACP Paediatrics & Child Health Division President Dr Sarah Dalton said she has grave concerns that only a minority of children and young people are getting the care they need.
"The most common mental health condition we see as paediatricians in Australia are young patients presenting with ADHD. Some studies have suggested that as much as 30 per cent of our work comes from this alone.
"With an increasing number of children and young people showing signs of mental health problems, and a limited number of clinicians specifically-trained to help them, we’re worried that young people could be falling through the cracks.
"We see firsthand that mental health issues can emerge in part due to an underlying chronic physical illness and that early contact with health professionals can make a huge difference.
"If left unaddressed poor mental health can have devastating flow on effects including suicide, trouble functioning at home or in school, and difficulty forming friendships which can lead to a range of serious health complications later in life," said Dr Dalton.
To tackle this serious issue the RACP is calling on the health sector to come together and develop more efficient, integrated and responsive models of care for children and young people with developmental, behavioural or mental health problems.
Crucial to this process is recognising the pivotal role paediatrician’s play in delivering clinical care to children and young people with mental health problems.
"We want to engage more with our professional colleagues in other disciplines as well as community organisations, state and federal governments and most importantly individuals and families of those who have been or are being affected by mental health issues, so that we can get the best outcome for our patients," said Dr Dalton.
To read the statement in full click here.
