Previous research among key figures showed that there is broad support in the Netherlands for developing a more consistent and jointly supported definition and terminology for mental health in youth. The Trimbos Institute and RIVM therefore mapped out the concept of ‘mental health in youth’. To gather diverse perspectives on the concept, young people, data custodians, researchers and professionals (in youth healthcare, youth support services, child and adolescent mental healthcare, and education) participated in the study.

From 99 characteristics to 16 themes and 4 areas

In this study, the concept of ‘mental health in youth’ was mapped out both literally and figuratively with all participants in a concept map. The concept map for mental health in youth consists of sixteen themes, divided into four areas:

  • personal (Positive outlook on life, Self-esteem, Meaning in life, Mastery—mental skills)
  • social environment (Belonging and participation, Social skills, Empathic ability, Resilience)
  • functioning (Mental self-care, Balance, Daily functioning, Personal growth, Absence of psychological complaints)
  • characteristics of the concept (Individual dynamics, Multiplicity and complexity, Contextual dependence)

The participants considered the personal area the most important. It comprises the themes ‘positive outlook on life’, ‘self-esteem’, ‘meaning in life’ and ‘mastery—mental skills’.

The participants considered the area of characteristics of the concept the least important. These themes relate more to the properties of the concept of ‘mental health in youth’ as such.

The concept of mental health in youth visualised

This study provides a clear picture of the concept of ‘mental health in youth’ in the Dutch context. It clearly shows that mental health in youth consists of various themes. We then also established how these themes relate to one another.

Next steps towards greater consensus

The concept map for mental health in youth can be further developed and used. Several options are available for this:

  • Using a consensus method, such as the Delphi method, the concept map can be used to achieve consensus—and thus support among experts—on the exact names and descriptions of the themes and the definition of the concept of mental health in youth.
  • The concept map can be used for a substantive analysis to determine the extent to which the measurement instruments used in current (and future) epidemiological studies and monitoring programmes include the relevant themes of mental health in youth.
  • The concept map can be used in the development, implementation and evaluation of policies to strengthen and promote mental health in youth. The selection of activities, measures and interventions can focus on one or a combination of the themes identified in this study.

Download the report here.