Outcomes for Indigenous Children in Care Presenting at a Specialist Child and Youth Mental Health Service

ABSTRACT

Limited evaluation research has been conducted on the effectiveness of mental health services and intervention provided to Indigenous children and young people (C&YP) in care. The primary objective of the study was to examine the difference in functioning and mental health outcomes of C&YP in care at a specialist mental health service for Indigenous and non-Indigenous C&YP. Of the total 259 C&YP included in this study, 38.2% (N = 99) were Indigenous. Two measures were used to examine C&YP’s mental health and functioning. Indigenous consumers showed a significantly greater improvement in antisocial behaviour, emotional symptoms, and peer relationships compared to non-Indigenous consumers at discharge from the program. The findings of this study provide support for the program’s therapeutic intent to be a culturally supportive tertiary level mental health service for vulnerable C&YP in care.

IMPLICATIONS

• Equivalent outcomes for Indigenous and non-Indigenous consumers provide support for the program’s intent to be a culturally supportive and safe tertiary level mental health service for vulnerable children and young people in care.

• Further research is needed to determine the key components of cultural consultation that are advantageous for consumers, care providers, and their families.

KEYWORDS:

• Indigenous
• Children
• Young People
• Out-of-Home Care
• Mental Health
• Intervention
• Trauma

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge the staff of Evolve Therapeutic Services across the State of Queensland, Australia, for their contribution to improving consumer outcomes and service evaluation. In addition, the authors wish to thank the Evolve Therapeutic Services State-wide Indigenous Program Coordinator Leadership Advisory Group and Associate Professor Deb Duthie for their insightful contribution to the manuscript.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).