Child psychiatry in Johannesburg, South Africa. A descriptive account of cases presenting at two clinics in 1997.
The records of all new cases presenting to two child psychiatry clinics (at four locations) in Johannesburg during 1997 have been entered into a database and analyzed to assist in the development of services, to improve clinical practice and to facilitate research. Results are presented for demographic data, referral sources, presenting complaints, psychosocial stressors and diagnoses. Initial analysis of the results indicates that further research is necessary into the prevalence of anxiety disorders, the effects of regular exposure to high levels of violence and the effects of multiple substitute parents. The study highlights trends and indicates where strategies are necessary to direct resources and to initiate prevention. The high case load of school-related disorders (including learning disorders and attention deficit disorder) demonstrates the need for the educational authorities to review current educational practices. The absence of a clear referral process from primary to secondary to tertiary results in an overload on the clinics and must be urgently addressed. In addition, intersectoral liaison between health, welfare, education and justice departments must be developed in order for children to receive the best care possible.
Vogel
W
W
Department of Psychiatry, University of the Witwatersrand, Alex/Tara Child Psychiatry Clinic, Pvt. Bag X7, Randburg, 2125 Johannesburg, South Africa.
Holford
L
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D002665:Child Psychiatry / Q000639:trends*; D002669:Child Welfare; D002675:Child, Preschool; D016208:Databases, Factual; D005260:Female; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007859:Learning Disabilities / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000628:therapy; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012572:School Health Services; D013019:South Africa