NCJ Number
211832
Journal
Youth Studies Australia Volume: 24 Issue: 3 Dated: September 2005 Pages: 24-30
Date Published
September 2005
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article presents findings from an evaluation of the mental health services provided at the Young People’s Health Service in Australia.
Abstract
The Young People’s Health Service, located in central Melbourne, Australia, is a health care service specifically for young people who are homeless. Mental health is the third most common reason for presentation at the Service. The Young People’s Health Service incorporated the mental health service within the primary health service providing a unique service model which has operated for about 7 years. However, this component of service has never been formally evaluated. In this study, the research included a literature review, qualitative semi-structured interviews with 19 young people who accessed the mental health services and with staff at the Service, and a focus group interview with representatives from co-located services at Frontyard. Results of the study are only from the interviews with the young people. The evaluation found that the young people wanted a mental health service that provided individuals to talk to whom they liked and trusted, who listened and allowed them to go at their own pace, and who offered practical strategies for dealing with issues. The study found that the young people found the Service and the mental health service to be approachable, nonjudgmental, confidential, and respectful. However, they reported that they did not like the counseling room, the waiting room, and the fact that the counselor was not in everyday. Even though the Young People’s Health Service fulfills most requirements, areas of improvement have been identified and are being reviewed with recommendations to follow. Tables, references