Abstract
Background
Mental diseases occur particularly frequently between the ages of 12 and 25 years, with important implications for the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment.
Objective
Against this background this article outlines a youth mental health paradigm which prioritizes the early detection, early intervention and prevention of mental disorders, e.g., psychoses, bipolar disorders and personality disorders in adolescence.
Material and methods
The first part of the article summarizes the findings for sensitive phases during brain development, which indicate the elevated plasticity of neural circuits during youth that can be used for preventive interventions. The interactions between risk and resilience factors and ongoing brain development are an essential reason for the frequent occurrence of mental disorders between 12–25 years. Furthermore, innovative diagnostic approaches, such as clinical staging models, are proposed that are a prerequisite for early detection and early intervention. In this context, low-threshold service modelss and age-appropriate interventions, such as digital approaches, are necessary to improve access to care in youths.
Discussion
Taken together, a “youth mental health” paradigm could significantly enhance mental health in young people and initiate a shift towards the prevention of severe mental disorders.
