YoungMinds calls for extra support for 18-25 year olds with mental health problems

Roger Catchpole, YoungMinds Principal consultant and member of the CAMHS Review Expert Panel said:  “Young people in CAMHS often find themselves without the support they need when they reach 18.  They can be treated by different people in adult services who have not spoken with their CAMHS team and have no understanding of their needs as a young person. Adult mental health services (AMHS) often have a different ethos, with the focus shifting away from the family to the individual.  This change to an environment which is not as friendly and inclusive can cause anxiety and be particularly difficult for young people who may not be developmentally mature.

“Planning can help, putting in place a clear pathway to AMHS will ensure 18 year olds will know who they will be seeing, what treatment they will receive and help reduce the difficulties in the transition. It is important to get this right, otherwise it can put young people off from engaging with the services from which they need help. Services therefore need to work together to ensure a plan which is flexible enough to meet the needs of the young person.

Catchpole continued:  “The government need to act on these initial recommendations and carry out the necessary research to determine action needed to tackle these problems. We hope to see this addressed in the governments response.”

Ends

For immediate release: 18th November 2008

Notes to Editors

1. Roger Catchpole is available for interview

2. For further information please contact Hannah Smith on 020 7336 1451 or at Hannah.smith@youngminds.org.uk

3. For a copy of YoungMinds submission to the CAMHS review please contact Hannah Smith on 020 7336 1451 or at Hannah.smith@youngminds.org.uk

4. Further information about  the CAMHS Review is available at www.dfes.gov.uk/CAMHSreview