Mental Health for Children and Young People is a New Priority in Scotland

Rhona Brankin, MSP

The 2004 review of the National Programme for Improving Mental Health and Well-Being in Scotland has identified the mental health of children and young people as the next key area to be tackled. Deputy health minister Rhona Brankin said that building self esteem and confidence provides a foundation for children and young people with mental health problems to recover.

‘This year we have built successful partnerships with the Health Promoting Schools Unit and also the Scottish Arts Council – using arts and culture to raise awareness about mental health’ she said.

The three-year National Programme was launched in September 2003 with /24 million of health improvement funds and aims to raise awareness, promote mental health and wellbeing, eliminate stigma and discrimination, prevent suicide and support recovery.

Copyright RCN Publishing Company Ltd. Feb 2005