Left high and dry. Healthcare transition experiences of young adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Healthcare transition is an important area that is attracting increasing attention from policy makers and clinicians, highlighting the need for transition services to be developed for young people with continuing health needs. This study aimed to examine the healthcare transition experiences of young adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) following their discharge from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services at age 18, and to elicit their views about what services they would find helpful in the future. Participants comprised four young adults with ADHD. An interview guide aimed to gain personal accounts of individual’s lived experiences of transition. Data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Four superordinate themes were identified: personal experience of ADHD diagnosis and treatment; impact on self and relationships; living with ADHD and moving on. It was evident from the participants’ accounts that there were gaps in the transitional care that they had received. Research findings were discussed with reference to existing literature relating to biographical disruption, stigma and transition theory. Despite the national priorities given to healthcare transition and recommendations about best practice, these initiatives do not appear to be translated at practice level or in service provision. These findings suggest that clear protocols should be developed and local services commissioned to ensure young adults are able to access services to support their continuing healthcare needs. Further research into this important area is necessary to further explore transition processes, possible options for service delivery and to determine where services should be located.

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