File photo.
Only 69 psychiatric inpatient beds for children and adolescents are operating across Greece, while most units face shortages of medical, nursing and administrative staff, according to a report by the Greek ombudsman.
The biggest gap affects adolescents aged 16 to 18, many of whom are hospitalized in adult psychiatric clinics, which the report describes as inappropriate and potentially dangerous to their safety and rights.
In Attica, only Sismanoglio hospital serves the full 14 to 18 age range, with 10 beds. Two other adolescent units, in Voula and Agia Varvara, remain closed because of staffing shortages.
The report also cites increased prosecutorial orders for involuntary psychiatric examinations and inadequate community services, limiting early intervention and follow-up care. It recommends opening the two units, hiring permanent multidisciplinary staff, expanding community services and gradually ending minors’ hospitalization in adult psychiatric clinics. Significant gaps also affect autistic children and other vulnerable groups.
