Resources

Cognition is the process of learning and understanding through our thoughts and experiences. Some people refer to this process as ‘thinking skills’. Research tells us that a young person’s cognitive function and wellbeing is vital for long-term functional recovery from mental ill-health (for example, education, employment, physical health and stable accommodation). 

If you’re working with young people who are experiencing mental ill-health, it is important to screen for potential cognitive difficulties at initial assessment. Orygen’s screening tool for cognitive risk provides valuable clinical insight and opportunity to implement cognitive interventions early. Orygen’s evidenced based screening tool is simple to use and incorporate in everyday clinical practice. Evidenced based cognitive interventions that build on a young person’s goals can optimise their functional recovery and build self-esteem, self-efficacy and independence.

With the right information and resources, it is possible to support young people experiencing cognitive difficulties and their families to effectively engage with treatment for mental ill-health.