Adolescents' understanding of mental health problems: conceptual confusion

This paper reports on research into adolescents' mental health literacy, focusing on their ability to recognise two diagnosable mental illnesses and three mental health problems associated with loss. A vignette‐based questionnaire was developed and completed by a school‐based sample of adolescents. Different levels of understanding were identified for each vignette. Participants responded well, demonstrating the different levels of understanding. Grading of the responses provided an opportunity to explore and discuss differences between professional and lay understanding of mental health and illness. It was also useful when considering implications for practice. These were considered in relation to mental health promotion for young people and training the workforce across the child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) tiers.