Year: 2007 Source: MJA, v.186, no.4, (February 19, 2007), p.181-184 SIEC No: 20070152

This study identified the prevalence of mental health problems, rates of suicide ideation & behaviour, & use of professional mental health services among children & adolescents residing in home-based foster care. These rates were compared with those reported for children & adolescents in the general Australiam community. 326 children & adolescents were included in a cross-sectional survey conducted in Adelaide between August 2004-January 2006. 6.7% of 13-17-year-olds in home-based foster care reported a suicide attempt requiring medical treatment in the previous year. Caregivers reported 53.4% of children needed professional help for their mental health problems but only 26.9% had obtained help in the previous 6 months. (17 refs.)