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November 15.2025

2 Minutes Read

Youth-Led Mental Health Innovations: Next Steps in Children's Mental Health Care

Scenic aerial view of coastal city with stadium and mountains.

Shifting Paradigms: Youth in the Forefront of Mental Health Solutions

The upcoming summit in Cape Town, organized by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF) Global Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, marks a pivotal moment in the conversation around children's mental health. With a theme vowing to engage youth as co-creators in change, experts will converge to strategize ways to transform the landscape of mental health support for young people.

Catalyzing Change: The Role of Youth in Mental Health Policy

This two-day event, set for November 24-25, intends to reshape existing policy frameworks and methodologies that have historically marginalized youth voices. Addressing topics like ADHD in children, depression, and the stigma surrounding mental health, the discussions promise to rally stakeholders while exploring culturally sensitive solutions designed for the South African context.

Holistic Approaches and Integration in Schools

One of the foremost goals of the summit is the integration of mental health support within school systems. Child psychology professionals will discuss effective interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for kids, which have proven beneficial for common childhood conditions. By solidifying relationships with educational institutions, the hope is to cultivate an environment where mental wellness is prioritized and accessible.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Improving community-based prevention programs is another critical focus. The summit will engage local partners, including community-based organizations, to refine assessment tools and training models. With young leaders participating actively, the event underscores the importance of homegrown insights in tackling issues related to anxiety, mood disorders, and learning difficulties.

Next Steps: Moving Beyond Discussions

The discussions during the summit will be followed by actionable strategies aimed at implementation. As noted by Jason Bantjes, a leading advocate in this field, it's essential not just to talk about these issues but also to mobilize collective action against the barriers that perpetuate mental health inequities. Engaging youth in crafting solutions enhances their investment in the systems affecting their lives, aligning with global standards for best practices in mental health care.

In conclusion, the pathway to improved behavioral health systems for children requires ongoing dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. As this gathering in Cape Town unfolds, the spotlight on youth-led initiatives will ensure that the future of mental health strategies is not only inclusive but also authentically reflective of young people's needs.

Mental Wellness

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Youth-Led Mental Health Innovations: Next Steps in Children's Mental Health Care

Shifting Paradigms: Youth in the Forefront of Mental Health Solutions

Catalyzing Change: The Role of Youth in Mental Health Policy

Holistic Approaches and Integration in Schools

The Importance of Community Engagement

Next Steps: Moving Beyond Discussions

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