Significant increase in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry referrals in Faroe Islands

A significant increase in children and adolescents being referred to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has been noted in recent years. The initial statistics from 2010 show 204 referrals. By 2013, that number dropped to 68, the lowest since 2010. In 2022, there were 360 referrals, and so far this year, there have been 236.

Over the past 15 years, there have been a total of 2,143 referrals to Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, consisting of 929 girls and 1,214 boys. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) account for half of these referrals.

Margit Stórá, the Minister of Health, acknowledged in a response to Lawmaker Bárður á Lakjuni that the rising numbers could indicate a growing concern regarding the mental well-being of children and adolescents. She added that it may also reflect a previously inadequate range of services available for these young individuals within the Faroese healthcare system.

In response to inquiries about screen usage, Stórá indicated that research suggests screen time has complex and varied impacts on the mental health of children and adolescents. According to the Hospital Service, this impact can be both beneficial and harmful.

Furthermore, studies indicate that excessive screen time may correlate with mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, ADHD-like symptoms, sleep disorders, self-esteem challenges, body image issues, and social isolation as a result of screen dependence.

The Health Authority is currently drafting recommendations regarding screen usage, expected to be completed by December, Stórá revealed.