Dealing with Adult Services Transition
Transition from children/young people’s services to adult mental health or Adult ADHD services or back to your GP will occur between the ages of 16 and 19 years. Normally it happens around 18 years of age. A young person will get assessed around school leaving age to establish the need for continuing treatment into adulthood.
If treatment is necessary arrangements will be made for a smooth transition to adult services, where the need for continued mediation, assessment and support can be provided. You may also be discharged back to the care of your GP if you no longer require medication or further specialist support.
This can be a worrying time especially if you have been seeing the same doctor (Paediatrician, Child Psychiatrist) or specialist for many years. Remember if you are worried or confused about what is going to happen please speak to your doctor or nurse who can help with any questions you may have. Your views are very important to us during this transition period.
Do not struggle alone even if you have been discharged from professionals care and you feel your symptoms are causing you difficulties again. Speak to a trust adult or your GP who can get the help for you that you need. It is very important that you regularly attend appointments with your GP or Adult ADHD Service professional following your transition and discharge from children’s services.
Helpful Hints & Tips for Young People Preparing for Transition
• Learn about your conditions and treatments.
• Practise asking and answering questions during clinic appointments.
• Try to take some responsibility for remembering what your medicines are called, what they are for, how much to take and when to take them.
• Learn how to get more supplies of your medicines.
• Practise arranging appointments with your consultant, family and/or doctor (GP).
• Keep important phone numbers and appointment dates in your mobile phone, calendar or diary.
• When you agree to treatment plans, make sure that you understand and follow them properly.
• Try spending time without your parents for part of clinic appointments, then when you feel ready try spending the whole appointment on your own.
• Find out who to contact in an emergency.
• Find out any changes in your condition that mean you should get urgent help.
