In this episode of Let's Talk Hope, Pooja speaks with Claire Laroc, a senior suicide prevention therapist, and Trish, a mother of a young man who utilised the service at James’ Place. The conversation delves into the critical issues surrounding mental health support for young people, particularly those aged 16 to 17, and the challenges faced by parents navigating the mental health system. The discussion highlights the importance of immediate access to services, the role of neurodiversity in mental health, and the need for a supportive environment for both young people and their families.

Takeaways

— There is a significant gap in mental health support for 16 to 17 year olds.

— Personal experiences can highlight systemic issues in mental health services.

— Parental involvement in therapy can enhance the effectiveness of treatment.

— Neurodiversity is prevalent among young people accessing mental health services.

— Accessing mental health services can be a lengthy and frustrating process.

— Immediate support is crucial for young people in crisis.

— The financial implications of inadequate mental health services are substantial.

— Age-appropriate care is essential for effective treatment.

— The therapeutic environment can impact a young person's willingness to engage.

— Feedback from young people can inform better practices in therapy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

01:02 Addressing the Gap in Support for Young People

02:58 Personal Experiences with Mental Health Services

05:52 The Role of Parents in Therapy

08:49 Therapeutic Approaches for Young People

12:36 Neurodiversity and Mental Health

14:59 Challenges in Accessing Services

19:58 The Need for Immediate Support

22:44 The Financial Implications of Mental Health Services

26:45 The Importance of Age-Appropriate Care

30:55 Feedback and Progress in Therapy

More Information / Help & Support

For more information about the individuals and organisations featured in this episode, or if you or someone you know has been affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, the following organisations can provide help and support:

• BBC Action Line: https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline/

• Papyrus: https://www.papyrus-uk.org/

• Samaritans: https://www.samaritans.org/

• Shout: https://giveusashout.org/

• Mind: https://www.mind.org.uk/need-urgent-help/using-this-tool/

• James’ Place: https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/

• Hub of Hope: https://hubofhope.co.uk/

• Alfie’s Squad: https://alfiessquad.org/

• Amparo: https://amparo.org.uk/

• WAY Widowed & Young: https://www.widowedandyoung.org.uk/

• The Martin Gallier Project: https://www.themartingallierproject.org

Credits

Series conceived & hosted by Prof Pooja Saini at Liverpool John Moores University

Produced and distributed by Innobella Media

Sound Recording & Post-Production: Paul Freeman-Powell

Music Composed & Produced by Tom Anderson