Investing in ethical collaboration for sustainable mental health care for children and families

Abstract Issue Child and adolescent mental health relies on close cooperation between healthcare, education, and social sectors. However, current practices remain fragmented, with little recognition of parents’ experiential knowledge and ethical tensions around information sharing. These issues affect care continuity, family support, and staff well-being. Investing in ethical and sustainable collaboration models is crucial to improving mental health systems globally. Description of the problem This 36-month participatory action-research project was conducted in a child mental health center in the East region of France, involving parents and professionals from social and healthcare sectors. Objectives (1) identify ethical and organizational barriers to collaboration, (2) recognize parental expertise in mental care pathways, (3) co-design ethical and sustainable collaboration tools. Methods included qualitative interviews, participant observation, and collective workshops. Results Results are preliminary. The project would to enhance interprofessional trust, reduce conflict, and increase parental involvement. It will lead to the creation of concrete tools: a shared collaboration charter, ethical information-sharing protocols, and joint meetings including parents. These will support care continuity and improve staff well-being. Lessons Investing in reflective and cooperative practices strengthens the sustainability of mental health systems. Recognizing parental knowledge is a key driver of equity and quality. These approaches are transferable to other settings facing similar coordination challenges. Key messages • Ethical collaboration strengthens sustainable mental health care systems. • Valuing human relationships and shared knowledge transforms care organizations.