Transition to adult mental health services for young people with an intellectual disability

Abstract

People with intellectual disabilities (ID) experience high rates of mental health problems, particularly during the period of transition to adulthood. It is therefore important that the transition from child- to adult-oriented health services for people with ID is well managed to ensure appropriate orientation to ongoing adult mental health care. The purpose of this paper is to summarise the impact and experience of transition to adult mental health care for people with ID and those who support them, as well as issues related to current policy and practice in this area. Several opportunities for improvement are identified in the broad areas of policy, service structure and organisation, research and workforce capacity. Enhancements in these areas will lead to improved outcomes for young people with ID transitioning from child- to adult-oriented mental health care.