2–year–olds to have mental health check

CHILDREN as young as two will have their psychological well-being assessed in order to monitor the mental health of youngsters in Scotland.

In the first study of its kind, NHS Scotland will question children on subjects including happiness and spirituality, in order to build a detailed profile of the mental health of Scots aged under 17.

The survey, which collects information on the mental well-being of children aged from 24-30 months to school-age, is due to be published towards the end of 2013.

According to official statistics from mental health charities, about one in ten children between five and 15 in Scotland experiences a mental health problem.

Dr Jane Parkinson, public health adviser with NHS Scotland, said: “It’s recognising that everyone in the population has a mental health need.”