Bed numbers at the state’s only inpatient emergency health facility for children under 16 are being reduced, despite surging demand for youth mental health services.

Press PLAY to hear Dr Tanveer Ahmed discuss youth mental health bed reductions

Psychiatrist Dr Tanveer Ahmed told 6PR Breakfast hosts Millsy and Karl that this will likely increase strain elsewhere in the healthcare system.

“It’ll go to emergency departments, which is a terrible place. Imagine if a 15-year-old struggling with mental health is stuck in emergency for two or three days. That’s the risk here”, Ahmed said.

If you or a young person you know needs support, contact Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or headspace on 1800 650 890.

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