Training CAMHS Professionals in Developing Countries: An Indian Case Study

Abstract

This paper presents a rationale for the education of CAMHS staff and service development as a partnership between the UK and developing countries. The local context and background of child and adolescent mental health services in India are described, and the rationale for the teaching principles is outlined. The planning and delivery of the teaching, following these principles, is illustrated through a case study of work in India. The discussion focuses on what worked well, problems and difficulties faced, how these were managed, and how visitors can influence change whilst respecting the local perspective. Suggestions are made for improving future programmes so as to maximise the outcomes of such links.

The impact of a mental health teaching programme on rural and urban secondary school students’ perceptions of mental illness in southwest Nigeria

“…The session was modified from a previously successful format which was designed for use with adults in non-specialist areas in the UK (Dogra et al 2005) and developed using appropriate teaching methods, which maximise student participation and learning. Students worked in five small groups which were each asked to consider: • Terms used to describe mental health problems or individuals experiencing mental health problems.…”

Training Health Professionals for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Care in Nigeria: A Qualitative Analysis

“…As far as the authors are aware, this is the first time a multi‐professional group has come together to train in child mental health in Nigeria. The advantages of multi‐professional learning in the health professions such as the acquisition of teamwork and collaborative skills have been observed (Dogra et al, 2005; Horsburgh, Lamdin, & Williamson, 2001; Parsell, Spalding, & Bligh, 1998). This benefit is even greater in child mental health as it potentially promotes increased understanding and knowledge of other health care professions, more positive attitudes and teamwork skills essential for successful management in this field.…”

Subspecialisation in Postgraduate Psychiatry and Implications for a Resource-Limited Specialised Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service

“…Learning the core principles of management from the West would be useful as many services attempt to provide evidence-based treatment. However, cultural practices, the nature of existing services, cost-effectiveness, and requirements of the population in South Asian countries need to be considered when adapting the Western service structure to establish local services [20][21][22]. In addition, the local services should be able to provide culturally relevant services to vulnerable populations such as the children who are affected by armed conflicts [23].…”