Assessing the Adolescents at Risk

what to notice, what to say, what to do—safely and fast

Given that 75% of mental illness begins before age 25, and 70% of young people do not seek help, the rates of mental ill-health in our young people is a very serious challenge.  Early assessment, prompt diagnosis and treatment is associated with a much better outcome and so this workshop is essential for anyone working with young people in education, health and welfare.

Using an entertaining and informative mix of didactic teaching, interactive quizzes, group discussion and case studies, participants will:

• Learn the most up to date research on the nature and extent of the problems facing teenagers with a focus on high prevalence disorders such as anxiety, depression and substance abuse.

• Understand and use key assessment paradigms:

  • the key developmental tasks of adolescence

  • a risk and protective factor framework

  • a key screening tool

  • a model for building resilience

  • applying the four world model with adolescents

• Practice applying these paradigms in a group context, giving participants confidence to apply and refresh these vital skills and knowledge.