Five-year review of adolescent mental health usage in Singapore

To provide a review of adolescent mental health service utilisation in a child and adolescent mental health outpatient clinic in Singapore.

Data from all new adolescent cases seen over a 5-year period in the Child Guidance Clinic were analysed. A review of services provided is also included.

Adolescent mental health usage has been on an increase with a rise in the number of cases diagnosed with depression. There has also been an increase in the number of forensic cases seen in the department.

There is a growing demand for adolescent mental health services. As the demands and stresses on today's youth increase, there is likely to be a continued increase in the demand for such services. The challenge in the future is to provide adolescent mental health services in cost-effective packages that will meet the needs as well as stay financially viable.