Recent research by Waldmann et al. (2021) has highlighted the significant costs associated with health and social services for children of parents with mental illness (PMI). The study, published in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, provides crucial data for practitioners aiming to improve outcomes for these vulnerable children. Here, we explore the findings and discuss how they can inform practice and encourage further research.
Key Findings
The study analyzed data from 332 children and adolescents (CA) with parents diagnosed with mental illness across six regions in Germany. The results were telling:
- The total mean costs for 12 months per child were €3736.35.
- Children with a psychiatric diagnosis incurred higher costs (€5691.93) compared to those without (€1245.01).
- Inpatient psychiatric services accounted for the highest costs, followed by school-based support and outpatient services.
Implications for Practitioners
These findings underline the importance of early intervention and comprehensive support for children of parents with mental illness. Practitioners can take several steps to improve outcomes:
- Early Detection: Screen for mental health issues in children of PMI to provide timely interventions.
- Integrated Services: Ensure coordination between mental health services, schools, and social services to address the multifaceted needs of these children.
- Parental Support: Provide resources and support for parents to improve family functioning, which can, in turn, benefit the child’s mental health.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to:
- Examine the long-term cost-effectiveness of preventive interventions.
- Explore the specific needs of children without a psychiatric diagnosis who still utilize mental health services.
- Develop and test family-based interventions that target both children and parents.
By implementing these strategies and encouraging further research, practitioners can make data-driven decisions that significantly improve the lives of children of parents with mental illness.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Costs of health and social services use in children of parents with mental illness.
