IAYMH 2013 - The Second International Youth Mental Health Conference

International Association of Youth Mental Health
On behalf of the Advisory and Scientific Committees we are delighted to invite you to attend the Second International Youth Mental health Conference - Young people at the forefront of reshaping services
Adolescence and early adulthood is a critical time for personal development. The major threat to this comes from mental ill health with 75% of mental and substance use disorders emerging by age 25. Latest research reveals the complex interplay of genes, environment, psychological and social factors underpinning the development of these conditions in young people. These conditions can have a devastating impact on young people’s potential to establish their own independence and goals. Yet most of these conditions are very treatable and, if caught early, most people will make a good recovery. Early access and engagement is crucial but traditional health services are not youth friendly. Major gaps exist between adolescent and adult services ? just at the stage when early intervention could be most effective.
New models are emerging of youth mental health services that embrace therapeutic optimism and incorporate the principals of prevention, early intervention, and recovery. They place young people and their families at the centre of decisions about service and policy development. Youth-friendly accessibility, engagement, and age-appropriate interventions are key to their success.
'Young people at the forefront of reshaping services' is a conference that aims to improve our understanding of youth mental heath, identify gaps in service provision, promote more effective interventions and models of care. This conference will celebrate the vital contribution that young people and their families can make to this field.
The conference will be held in the UK, fresh on the success of hosting the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. The UK has excellent international air access and a large mental health community ready and able to participate in this exciting conference with their international colleagues.
We hope to see you at the Brighton Dome from 30th September to 2nd October 2013.