PROBLEM: Emergency care in child and adolescent psychiatry often lacks a coherent treatment model. This study reports on the development and implementation of a salutogenic treatment model at the Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Emergency Unit in Malmo, Sweden. METHODS: The development and implementation involved all staff categories and was guided by a recognized authority on salutogenesis. Generalized resistance resources (GRR) were identified that could be implemented at the unit to improve patients' sense of coherence. FINDINGS: Eight GRR were developed and implemented at the unit. During the 6-month period following the implementation, patients (n = 41) and parents reported satisfaction with the treatment, while mental health improved between admission and discharge, and both treatment length and readmission rates were reduced. CONCLUSION: A salutogenic treatment model involving GRR seems to be a promising approach in child and adolescent psychiatric emergency treatment.