Youthscope
Youthscope specialise in the assessment and treatment of young people experiencing depression, anxiety disorders and personality difficulties (problems with coping and interpersonal relationships). The two clinics within Youthscope are the Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinic and the HYPE (Helping Young People Early) Clinic. The Intensive Mobile Youth Outreach Service (IMYOS) are also part of Youthscope.
The Mood and Anxiety Disorders Clinic works with young people suffering from depression, bipolar II disorder (non psychotic bipolar disorder) and severe anxiety disorders such as anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder. Treatment episodes are usually brief (6 months) and young people may receive more than one episode of care, up to a maximum of two years from when they are first seen.
The HYPE Clinic provides an early intervention service for young people with longstanding problems around unstable moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image and behaviour. These problems are sometimes called ‘emerging personality difficulties’ and mainly effect the young person’s sense of who they are and their ability to control their emotions and impulses. These problems cause significant strain and disruption to families and other relationships. If left untreated, these problems may become entrenched and continue into adulthood.
Service Options
- Case management
- Home visits
- Assessment of mental state and risk
- Specialised treatments, including psychological and medication
- Neuropsychological and occupational therapy interventions
- Referral and liaison with other community agencies (eg. employment services)
- Regular contact and support of families and carers
- Educating the young person and family about the illness
- Supporting the young person during their recovery
Treatment Goals
- Early identification and treatment of primary symptoms of the illness
- Reducing frequency and severity of symptoms
- Improving health and wellbeing thus improving social and vocational functioning
- Promoting wellbeing among family members and carers
- Developing a plan for maintaining mental health