Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

BACKGROUND: Anxiety disorders are among the most common psychopathologies in childhood; however, a high proportion of children with anxiety disorders do not access effective treatments. The aim of the present qualitative study was to understand families' experiences of seeking help and accessing specialist treatment for difficulties with childhood anxiety. METHODS: Parents of 16 children (aged 7-12 years) referred to a child mental health service for difficulties with anxiety were interviewed about their experiences of seeking and accessing treatment within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS). All interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed for similarities and differences in families' experiences. RESULTS: Factors that helped and/or hindered families accessing treatment related to (a) parental recognition, (b) contact with professionals, (c) reaching CAMHS, (d) parental effort, and (e) parental knowledge and concerns. High demands on services and parents' uncertainty surrounding the help-seeking process presented key hurdles for families. The critical role of parental persistence and support from general practitioners and school staff was evident across interviews. CONCLUSIONS: Findings highlighted the need for information and guidance on identifying child anxiety difficulties and professional, peer, and self-help support, and ensuring sufficient provision is available to allow families prompt access to support.

Original publication

DOI

10.1111/cch.12672

Type

Journal article

Journal

Child Care Health Dev

Publication Date

07/2019

Volume

45

Pages

491 - 499

Keywords

CAMHS, childhood anxiety, help seeking, parents, qualitative, treatment access, Adult, Anxiety Disorders, Attitude to Health, Child, Child Health Services, England, Female, Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice, Health Services Accessibility, Humans, Male, Mental Health Services, Middle Aged, Parents, Patient Acceptance of Health Care, Physicians, Family, Professional-Family Relations, Psychiatric Status Rating Scales, Qualitative Research, School Teachers