Under the therapy guarantee for those under the age of 23, brief therapy or other psychosocial treatment must begin within 28 days of a professional identifying a need for care. The services covered by the guarantee are intended for milder mental health symptoms.
The focus is on brief interventions and low-threshold services delivered by basic health care. The Social Services, Health Care and Rescue Services Division and the Education Division have prepared for the launch by investing in brief therapy training for personnel. These short-term interventions – designed to provide fast, accessible support – will be available in settings such as schools, educational institutions, Mieppi services and family centres.
Feeling low? Help is at hand
Mental health services for children and young people are a priority in Helsinki. The City has long been developing these services in collaboration with partners by investing in access to treatment, staff training and communication.
Help is available at a low threshold. Children, young people and their guardians can seek support through schools and educational institutions, Mieppi services, maternity and child health clinics, health stations, youth centres and social services.
Growing up isn’t always easy. Children and young people may face a variety of challenges – difficulties at home, bullying at school, academic struggles, loneliness, or even experiences of violence or harassment. Troubling thoughts and low moods can affect anyone.
- I hope that children and young people feel able to speak up about the challenges in their lives. Problems are a part of life, but no one should have to face them alone. Help and information are available, says Leena Turpeinen, Director of Health and Substance Abuse Services.
- Support provided early is often the most effective, Turpeinen adds.
A wide range of information about mental health and substance abuse services for young people is available at hel.fi/youngmentalhealth . The website also includes tips on how to promote your own wellbeing, as well as links to trusted chat services where young people can talk with peers and adults who are ready to help.