Co-Creating Mental Health Solutions That Work for Children and Young People

“We wanted to show that co-creation is not just a principle, but a practical approach that drives real change,” said Malene Terp from Best for Us.

The workshop highlighted how Best for Us uses co-creation at multiple levels:

• Mapping experiences through interviews and workshops with youth, parents, and professionals.
• Testing new collaborative models, such as involving young people and parents as co-developers.
• Developing concrete initiatives, including:
  • The Family Team: A cross-sector collaboration model centered on the family.
  • Digital PROM: A patient-reported outcome tool for children and youth with mental health challenges, usable across sectors.
  • Therapeutic Assessment: A new model where treatment begins during the diagnostic phase, focusing on young people and their families most pressing concerns.

The project also integrates program theory, data collection, and digital development – all grounded in user involvement throughout the process.

Participation in ESCAP was not only about sharing results but also about contributing to the broader international dialogue on how to make psychiatric services more accessible, sustainable, and user-centered. Co-creation is still not widely practiced in child and adolescent psychiatry, making this an important opportunity to inspire change and build networks.

To support continued collaboration, Best for Us is establishing an international network on co-creation in child and adolescent mental health. The network will meet twice a year to exchange experiences and ideas. Anyone with an interest in co-creation and interdisciplinary collaboration is welcome to join.

For more information or to get involved, contact Malene Terp at m.tern@rn.dk.