Debate: Inpatient units must enhance the system of care

Child or adolescent psychiatric inpatient units are expensive; therefore, a lot is expected of them. Short stay units are best used for diagnostic clarification, the initiation and supervision of complex treatment, and acute containment of risk. Longer stay units provide a recovery-focused programme to address mental health problems that have not responded to intensive treatment in other settings. Both types of unit form part of the wider system of care that supports young people with mental health problems. The operational characteristics of such units will ensure timely, safe and effective interventions to young people who will likely go on to receive most of their clinical care in the community.