The ACAMH Malta 10th Anniversary Conference, themed “Stronger Together: The Role of Families and Systemic Connection in Mental Health Recovery,” was held on May 5–6, 2025, at Villa Arrigo Hall in Naxxar. This landmark event celebrated a decade of the Association for Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ACAMH) Malta branch’s commitment to advancing mental health care for young people and their families.
Founded in 2015 as the first international branch of ACAMH, ACAMH Malta has been instrumental in providing high-quality education, fostering collaboration, and driving change in child and adolescent mental health services. Over the years, the organization has hosted numerous conferences and training sessions, covering topics such as autism, ADHD, eating disorders, and behavioral challenges.
The 10th Anniversary Conference brought together professionals, researchers, and practitioners to discuss the pivotal role of families and systemic connections in mental health recovery. The event featured a series of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops aimed at sharing knowledge and best practices.
Under the leadership of its former president, Andrea Saliba, ACAMH Malta has also played a key role in supporting the creation of other international branches in countries such as India and Egypt.
The conference not only marked a significant milestone for ACAMH Malta but also reinforced the organization’s ongoing commitment to improving mental health outcomes for children and adolescents through education, research, and community engagement.
Conference Highlights
The conference featured a diverse lineup of international and local experts who delved into key topics such as:
- Family-based interventions and their impact on child and adolescent mental health.
- Multi-agency collaboration between schools, healthcare providers, and communities.
- The influence of social determinants on mental well-being.
- Innovative strategies for building resilience and promoting recovery.
Notable speakers included John Burnham, Dr. Jeremy DeBono, Dr. Sarah Halligan, Dr. Vicky Powell, and Dr. Amina Al-Yassin, who shared insights on coordinating resources between families and professionals, the interplay of genetics and environment, socio-contextual factors in PTSD, parental depression, and health inequalities affecting child mental health.
Community Engagement and Reflections
The event fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among attendees, emphasizing the importance of systemic connections in mental health recovery. Participants appreciated the opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary discussions and network with peers committed to improving outcomes for young people.
As ACAMH Malta marks a decade of dedication to child and adolescent mental health, the conference underscored the collective commitment to building a more connected and supportive system for mental health recovery.
For more information and updates on future events, visit the ACAMH Malta Facebook page, and to find out more about the branch itself please do visit our branch page.
