ABSTRACT
The majority of adolescents enjoy robust health, both physical and mental, and it is important to emphasise that only a minority experience serious psychological difficulties. The largest number within this minority presents to the local authority Social Services Departments and only a few reach the psychiatrist. On the whole, the referral seems to be relatively satisfactory, largely distinguishing between those who are sick and those who are simply in distress, although, in some instances, the division may only be paper-thin.
