Defining research priorities for youth public mental health: reflections on a co-production approach to transdisciplinary working

Abstract Background With most mental health problems established during childhood/adolescence, young people must be a key focus of public mental health (PMH) approaches. Despite the range of factors known to influence mental health, evidence for effective interventions is lacking for this age group. This study aimed to define priorities for future intervention-focussed research to support youth PMH by engaging with transdisciplinary stakeholder groups. Methods Our co-production approach involved priority-setting workshops with young people, researchers, practitioners and policymakers. Each workshop focussed on three thematic areas: social connections and relationships; schools and other education settings; key groups at greater risk of mental ill-health, specifically LGBTQ+ and care-experienced young people. Workshop outputs were synthesised to define research priorities. Results Ten priorities for youth PMH research were defined, covering the following areas: building supportive relationships; whole system approaches; social media; support at times of transition; improving links between different services; development and training for those who support young people; staff mental health; engaging with families; awareness of and access to services; out of school and community settings. Conclusions These research priorities can inform future intervention-development to support youth PMH. Our transdisciplinary approach means the identified research priorities are more likely to be relevant to young people’s experiences and needs, and to fit with the needs of those working in practice and policy to support young people.