Adolescent Psychiatry Working Group, Turku

Assessment or therapy by the adolescent psychiatry working group may be indicated because of these conditions, for example:

• serious depression or anxiety symptoms
• self-destructive behaviour or intentions
• symptoms of eating disorder.

The adolescent psychiatry working group may also make assessments of adolescents whose function has deteriorated markedly or whose behaviour has changed profoundly and is no longer compatible with the behaviour of young people of similar age.

We receive referrals concerning adolescents aged 13–18 years as well as patients aged 19 years if the patient has been enrolled for treatment at the adolescent psychiatry unit the Turku University Central Hospital (Tyks) within the previous 12 months. The treatment relationship with adolescent psychiatry ends at the latest when the patient is 20 years of age.

We respond to referrals in writing or by organizing a visit for an adolescent psychiatric consultation. During the first visit the situation of the patient is analyzed in detail and a preliminary plan for an assessment period or for starting therapy is made. Therapy is individualized and is designed to meet the requirements of each patient and his/her family. The health care professionals involved in the treatment are bound by professional secrecy. Visits are free of charge.

The patients attend by referral. Consultation services are also are provided without a referral with a low threshold. Young people who need acute adolescent psychiatric assessment or therapy are generally referred to the centralized adolescent psychiatric services of Tyks.