Transitioning from Child/Adolescent to Adult Mental Health Services

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of young adults transitioning from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) from the perspectives of patients. Using convenience sampling, six participants were recruited for individual semi-structured interviews. Using conventional content analysis, I identified five categories reflective of the participants' experiences: 1. 'Expectations', 2. 'Transition is a Gradual Process and not an Abrupt Change', 3. 'Factors Influencing Transition', 4. Living the Transition' and 5. 'Improving the Transition'. These categories included subcategories, when appropriate, to highlight variation within the main experiences. The findings provide insight into the experiences of young adults who are - or have lived - the transition from CAMHS to AMHS from their perspectives. The participants' stories are useful to understand the physical and emotional challenges associated with shifting to adult care, and their recommendations can help to inform healthy transitions in this context.