Exposing challenges in transitioning post residential mental health treatment: The case of the “Poster child”

ABSTRACT

A case report is employed that illustrates the need for residential mental health treatment (RT) and the need for continuation of support post RT. Children and youth with moderate-to-severe mental health needs that require intensive treatment in a safe setting for a duration of several months might access RT. RT is sometimes the treatment of choice, and, in fact, is the best treatment option for some youth regardless of whether the youth is in the care of the family or child welfare authorities. However, mental health needs do not stop after discharge from RT. A continuation of supports and continuation of contact with a mental health professional may provide stability that can foster the youths’ progress in education and interpersonal relationships that are significantly affected by the mental health disorders but are simultaneously essential for transitioning to adulthood.

KEY WORDS:

• Transitioning from residential treatment
• continuity of service
• emotional and behavioral disorders
• chronic mental illness

Acknowledgments

The transition study was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (Grant Account Number 435-2014-0393) awarded to Dr Michèle Preyde, PhD, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, University of Guelph. We would like to thank all the youth, caregivers and staff who participated in the original study. We also extend our gratitude to the research assistants.

Additional information

Funding

The transition study was funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada [435-2014-0393] awarded to Dr Preyde, PhD, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, University of Guelph.