North Lincolnshire youngsters struggling with their emotional well-being can now get personal, confidential advice from a health professional via their smartphone or computer.
If they are aged 11 to 18, all they have to do is download the free RDaSH eClinic (CAMHS) app from Apple or Google Play and register their details.
The instant messaging app enables them to schedule an online e-clinic appointment with a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) worker, where they can have a ‘live’ chat about any mental health problems they are having.
Currently, NHS staff are on-hand to confidentially respond to pre-booked ‘chats’ every Thursday and Friday afternoon from 1pm to 5pm.
Karen Smith, from Rotherham Doncaster and South Number NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH), said: “CAMHS appointments have tripled over the past year as the pandemic has had a massive effect on the emotional well-being of young people, ranging from exam worries to health anxieties. Young people like this method of getting help and advice from a health professional because they can do it remotely without having to meet face-to-face.
“The app was developed by RDaSH staff after extensive consultation with young people. It’s proving a success as it has been downloaded over 1,400 times so far.”