Lost in transition or translation? Care philosophies and transitions between child and youth and adult mental health services: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: Differences in care philosophies may influence transitions from child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) to adult mental health services (AMHS).

Aims: To review literature about CAMHS and AMHS care philosophies and their influence on transitions.

Method: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase and CINAHL databases were searched electronically using keywords related to transitions, youth and mental disorders. Content relating to philosophies of care was searched manually. Descriptive themes were extracted and the analysis suggested four hypotheses of how care philosophies influence transitions.

Results: Of the 1897 identified articles, 12 met eligibility criteria. Findings reveal consistent differences in care philosophies between CAMHS (developmental approach, involving families and nurturing) and AMHS (clinical/diagnosis-focus, emphasis on client autonomy and individual responsibility).

Conclusions: Better understanding of philosophical differences and collaborative planning and service delivery may foster shared approaches in CAMHS and AMHS to better meet the needs of transitioning youth.

• Adolescent
• adult mental health services
• care philosophy
• care approach
• child
• child and adolescent mental health services
• mental disorders
• transition to adult care

Declaration of interest

The Government of Ontario funded this study through a Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care Health System Research Fund grant entitled “Harnessing Evidence and Values for Health System Excellence”. The views expressed in this manuscript are the views of the authors and should not be taken to represent the views of the Government of Ontario. The authors would also like to acknowledge the support and feedback we have received from other members of our Transitions study research team members: Christopher Longo, Briano DiRezze, and Neil Barr. We also thank our Research Services Librarian Jeannie An, our research coordinator Diana Vania and our research assistants Matthew Dickson and Alison Mulvale for their excellent contributions.