Transferring young adults from Child and Adolescent Psychiatry to the Adult psychiatry can have a damaging impact to their wellbeing. This is according to new research from researchers at the Luleå University of Technology, who have found that the consequence of moving young adults could be that they won’t receive the care offered. The researchers say that, in order for the transfer to be successful, individuals need a clear plan based on their personal wellness needs.
According to Eva Lindgren, who has a PhD in Nursing, LTU, there are completely different perspectives involved in children’s and adolescents’ mental health and adult psychiatry. This means that making the transfer is a big step for young adults, as they will be expected to be mature enough to be able to make their own decisions about continuing care and treatment. Lindgren explained that having a mental illness makes it even more complicated.
There is a family focus to child and adolescent psychiatry whereas adult psychiatry focuses on you as an individual. Therefore, there is a risk that young adults will fall through the cracks during the transfer without the support they need from relatives. Young adults require self-motivation and a strong will, as well as a confidence in their healthcare. Lindgren said that those who have a good relationship with their relatives anyway don’t tend to have a problem, but when young adults don’t have anyone to help them, the chances are they won’t get the care that they need.
For her study, Lindgren interviewed focus groups made up of staff involved in child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. She also conducted individual interviews with young adults and their relatives. The results of the study revealed that there’s a need for transfers to be planned in time, with the patient’s parents involved, in order for them to be successful.
The study also found that both sides need to put in the same amount of work, and staff need to collaborate and get to know each other, as they need to start from a shared consensus. Lindgren added that staff need to put in the time and resources necessary to make the transition as smooth as possible, and there also must be some flexibility based on individual needs.
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