​​​Some of the team members behind the Precision Child and Youth Mental Health (PCYMH) initiative at CHEO, which is changing the way mental health care is offered to children and youth.

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By: Kelsea Towell

As many as half of children and youth with mental health conditions do not respond to traditional treatment methods, which is why researchers, clinicians, data scientists, patients and caregivers have come together through the precision approach to find effective individualized treatments. 

A recent study from the Precision Child and Youth Mental Health (PCYMH) Collaboratory at the CHEO Research Institute demonstrated how a precision mental health intervention was feasible, well-accepted by patients, families, and providers, and did not disrupt the flow of care.  

PCYMH uses comprehensive information about the individual, ranging from the DNA code to the postal code to identify and treat children and youth with mental health problems more precisely. The goal is to detect mental health disorders sooner, provide better treatments tailored to the needs of each child and youth, and improve long-term outcomes. 

The results of the study support the launch of a full-scale study to examine clinical outcomes of this innovative approach to improving mental health care through greater precision in treatment. 

The intervention measured the unique cognitive profile of brain function in each new patient before they started treatment, which was then used to help providers tailor treatment plans to take advantage of a person's cognitive strengths, while accommodating any weaknesses.  

“This approach could revolutionize how we address mental health care for our youngest populations," said Dr. Kathleen Pajer, Director of the PCYMH Collaboratory and co-investigator on the study.

“By moving away from the 'one-size-fits-all' approach, we are working on creative ways to offer more effective treatment for children and youth, truly placing their unique needs at the centre of their care plan, improving outcomes and empowering families." 

This approach was highly valuable, according to 83 per cent of patients and 94 per cent of caregivers who submitted self-reported data. Some caregivers also called the experience “transformational" for their child or youth.  

Clinicians shared similar feedback, as 91 per cent indicated the project added value to their care, and many wanted it as part of their routine care. 

The PCYMH Collaboratory aims to transform care by combining research, data, and technology to create personalized mental health interventions that considers the whole child. 

“The goal is to detect mental health disorders sooner and provide better, tailored treatments to improve long-term outcomes for each child and youth," said Dr. Pajer. 

To continue advancing this research, the PCYMH Collaboratory will focus on supporting the collection of innovative data, advancing PCYMH methods such as artificial intelligence and comprehensive data, translating research into clinical practice, and expanding clinical trials.  

The transformational work, which is being done in collaboration with SickKids, was made possible thanks to the generous funding from the Waverley House Foundation and additional partners through the CHEO Foundation. 

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