The estimated annual unserved demand for mental health services for children aged 5-12 years old in Manitoba is estimated to be between 10,772 to 21,545 children. One of KIDTHINK’s goals is to decrease wait-times for members of this group. In addition, KIDTHINK is strengthening the support system in the lives of children suffering from mental illness and mental health challenges through the KIDTHINK intervention and knowledge transition programs.
As KIDTHINK continues to operate and grow, the important and positive changes in contacted communities will broaden and an increase in the number of children having access to assessment and treatment services at younger ages will become a reality. With a focus on prevention and early intervention and capacity building of community supports, the need for those services will reduce. Eventually, the KIDTHINK model will expand across Canada and will aid, influence and inspire like-ventures to help create a modern, innovative, effective Canada that meets the needs of all youth in need of mental health treatment.