Ombudsman report: ‘Lack of sensitivity’ in teen psych units

A lack of sensitivity and use of confusing clinical language are among the challenges identified by young people using mental health services, according to a new report from the Ombudsman for Children.

Published yesterday, Ombudsman Dr Niall Muldoon said the ‘Take My Hand’ report gives a “rare insight” into the experiences of 25 young people, aged 14-17, in five of Ireland’s six inpatient units for children and young people, three in Dublin, one in Galway and one in Cork.

While young people often spoke positively about the medical professionals who worked with them, many questioned their interpersonal skills and their inability to communicate in a child-friendly way.