Written answers

Wednesday, 5 December 2018

Department of Health

Mental Health Services

Photo of Denise MitchellDenise Mitchell (Dublin Bay North, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

214. To ask the Minister for Health the number of recommendations relating to the implementation of the national youth mental health task force report of 2017 which have been completed; the number of recommendations still outstanding; the progress made in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51060/18]

Photo of Jim DalyJim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Department of Health published the Youth Mental Health Task Force report in December 2017. The recommendations of the Taskforce have now been incorporated into the service plans of a number of lead agencies, many of which do not fall directly under the aegis of the Department. The actions in the Task Force are broad and we are implementing several actions over the three year implementation period. This year we have made progress in the development of digital technologies such as a new website, a digital crisis textline, and new tele-health interventions. There have been additional training projects introduced such as; MindOut in secondary schools, Longer mental health modules in the SPHE programme, New perinatal training for nurses and midwives, and additional mental health first aid training for professionals working with vulnerable individuals. In addition, a number of other projects are still being considered such as Pathfinder and the development of a child advocacy service.

Photo of Denise MitchellDenise Mitchell (Dublin Bay North, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

215. To ask the Minister for Health the progress made in ensuring all young persons aged up to 25 years have access to an active listening service and dynamic signposting tool regarding recommendation No. 3 of the national youth mental health task force report of 2017 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51061/18]

Photo of Jim DalyJim Daly (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Department of Health published the Youth Mental Health Task Force report in December 2017. One of the recommendations was the development and implementation of a suite of digital mental health supports for young people up to 25 years of age. The HSE have a working group in place to oversee the implementation of a number of signposting tools. The newly designed website www.yourmentalhealth.ie was launched in October and offers a directory of services for people who are looking for mental health support. In addition, a new digital crisis text line is due to be launched in early 2019. There are also plans to launch a 24/7 telephone helpline in partnership with the National Ambulance Service in quarter 1, 2019.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.