Mental health disorders are one of the most common conditions among children and adolescents worldwide, with a prevalence between 9 and 22 percent. The increasing need for care in this group of patients, with concurrent staffing and infrastructural limitations in child and adolescent psychiatric care, leads to considerations of adapted care models.

For the analysis in this report, twelve documents (out of 128), from seven countries, were selected. Data on the following topics were extracted: Information and awareness raising activities, mental health promotion, prevention, detection, treatment, telemedicine, care pathways, transitional psychiatry, vulnerable patient groups, patient participation, infrastructure, workforce development, implementation, digital tools for case management, and data acquisition/ research. In addition, 121 indicators specific to the mental health of children and adolescents were identified.

All included countries advocate a public mental health approach that is characterised by encouraging mental health promotion and prevention. For this aim, the educational sector plays an essential role and should be supported with additional staff and mental health training for educators. The included countries further highlight the importance of increased user participation, focusing on special support for vulnerable groups, and through creating structures within child and adolescent mental health services that promote coordination of services according to individual needs.

For further adapting the Austrian care structures, the creation of a stand-alone, national strategy is recommended, which puts the mental health of children and adolescents in focus. The development of this strategy is preferably participatory and cross-sectoral (health, education, social and youth justice sectors). Further development of care pathways, workforce development, and evidence-based governance of programmes and initiatives are required. To address the current shortage of hospital beds and psychiatrists, the outpatient sector (e.g. home treatment) and other needs-based services should be expanded. Prioritised indicators and accompanying health services research should be used to better address vulnerable patient groups and current limitations in care.