Citation

Waddell C, Shepherd CA, Chen A, Boyle MH. Can. J. Commun. Ment. Health 2013; 32(1): 9-27.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Wifrid Laurier University Press)

DOI

10.7870/cjcmh-2013-003

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Canada urgently requires a population health approach to children's mental health--promoting health and preventing disorders, in addition to providing treatment. Underpinning this approach, indicators could enable population monitoring, thereby informing ongoing public investments. To investigate potential indicators for British Columbia, we developed a comprehensive population health framework, established selection guidelines, reviewed data sources, and identified sample indicators. While 15 survey and administrative sources yielded 90 indicators, there were significant imbalances in coverage of the framework. To create truly comprehensive children's mental health indicators, we therefore recommend collecting new data, enhancing existing data sources, and evaluating existing programs.

KEYWORDS: children's mental health, population health, public policy, public data, indicators, monitoring