“More planning needed to advance infant mental health and well-being,” Chris Quinn shares his views on infant mental health needs.
Commissioner ~ “More planning needed to advance infant mental health and well-being”
NICCY has welcomed the opportunity to highlight the significance of infant mental health during Infant Mental Health Awareness Week (IMHAW).
Since the reinstatement of the devolved government in February this year, there have been talks about bolstering mental health services in Northern Ireland and the role of the Mental Health Strategy in driving changes within the health and social care system, along with service reconfiguration.
Commissioner for Children and Young People, Chris Quinn, said: “While this focus has been positive, there is concern about the limited attention given to transforming children’s and adolescent mental health services, specifically the lack of planning for advancing infant mental health and well-being.
“NICCY would advocate for expanding discussions on mental health services to include infants and recognising infant mental health as a specialised policy area that demands targeted actions within the health and social care system.
He continued: “Recognising that early relationships are crucial for infant mental health development, with young babies needing caring, responsive adults to help them comprehend, regulate, and manage challenging emotions.
“Early years’ well-being, including emotional health, significantly impacts future outcomes. To fully achieve the prevention and early intervention vision, including the goals outlined in the Mental Health Strategy, infant mental health, well-being, and their connection to carers’ health and well-being must be acknowledged and dealt with as a distinct policy area.
“Promoting and addressing infant mental health necessitates a comprehensive system response, including offering specialised services for the most vulnerable.
The Commissioner, concluded: “Failing to provide appropriate support early on may result in unnecessary suffering and harm for infants and children, leading to emotional health and well-being issues that could evolve into future mental health challenges.
“Action 11 of the Mental Health Strategy focuses on infant mental health, and this action must be fully implemented to advance other relevant actions concerning children and young people.”