Supports for Young People with Mental Health Conditions and Their Families in the Transition Years

Young people aged 17 to 24 with mental health conditions face significant obstacles in obtaining services and supports as they negotiate the transition from adolescence to adulthood. For many of these young people, results of an “unsupported transition” include high rates of unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration, as well as substance abuse, unplanned pregnancy, and engagement in high-risk behaviors. In general, families want to be supportive, but they struggle to understand the unique needs of their children and to be involved in their treatment. This article reports on a qualitative study of the experiences and perceptions of transition-age youth and their parents of using mental health services and informal supports. Findings indicate that youth and parents appreciated service providers who were compassionate, well trained, and responsive to needs, and that they appreciated family and peer support. Participants complained about ineffective and unhelpful staff, the lack of relevant services, and youths’ loss of eligibility for services at age 18. Ideal supports include families; peer support and leadership development groups; accessible, appropriate services; and responsive, compassionate service providers. Optimal supports and services will be more likely when young people and families are included in service planning and delivery.