Lack of Specialist Staff in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Shortfall of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists: Specialist Positions Remain Unfilled - Inadequate supply of child and adolescent psychiatrists and facilities for mental health care

In the heart of Germany, the state of Saxony is grappling with a pressing issue in its child and adolescent psychiatry sector. The situation has become a cause for concern, with decision-makers failing to give the field the importance it deserves.

The University Hospital Dresden's Clinic and Polyclinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, under the direction of Veit Roessner, is a central concern due to a massive undersupply in the field. Roessner himself has stated that there is a significant shortage of resources.

The increase in eating disorders and anorexia cases, particularly among younger individuals, has been observed in Saxony. Unfavorable family climates and the influence of social media, which often presents an unrealistic ideal to young girls, are identified as contributing factors. Photos of idols, altered using filters, image editing, or cosmetic surgery, add to the pressure young girls feel to conform.

The COVID-19 pandemic has further worsened the situation. Despite an official increase in beds for child and adolescent psychiatry in Saxony, securing a bed during and after the pandemic has become more difficult. Waiting times for treatment can be up to two years, depending on the diagnosis. For specific conditions such as tic and obsessive-compulsive disorders, waiting times are approximately 33 weeks, while for the autism clinic, waiting times can stretch as long as two years.

The organization requiring children's and youth psychiatry in Saxony to become a central coordination center for childhood and youth problems for early, effective support has not been explicitly named. However, institutions like the Gemeinsame Bundesausschuss (G-BA) are involved in setting guidelines for coordinated care of mental health, and regional social services or health authorities typically have roles in structuring such services.

The value of relationships, lived community, and commitment is decreasing, according to the specialist. Structured daily routines, including opportunities for social interaction, are reported to benefit patients in youth psychiatry. However, the current state of affairs does not provide enough rooms to create more treatment capacity in large cities like Leipzig and Dresden.

A significant portion of the stated bed numbers in child and adolescent psychiatry are not actually available in the clinics. This further complicates the issue, as the demand for mental health services continues to grow.

In light of these challenges, it is crucial that decision-makers give more attention and resources to the field of child and adolescent psychiatry in Saxony. Early, effective support can make a significant difference in the lives of young people struggling with mental health issues.