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Mental Health and Transitions from Adolescence to Emerging Adulthood: Developmental and Diversity Considerations

Publication: Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
6 June 2014

Abstract

This paper provides a review of mental health and developmental issues specific to the phases of adolescence and emerging adulthood. Prevalence estimates highlight the frequency and severity of mental health difficulties in this age cohort, and point to the pressing need to integrate a developmental perspective in planning support, prevention, and intervention services. A brief overview of common mental health issues is provided, as well as a consideration of relevant developmental trajectories and variations. Using a health equity lens, we discuss diversity issues in relation to transition-aged youth. Conclusions include recommendations to enhance the system of care for transition-aged youth.

Résumé

Cet article fait le point sur les questions de santé mentale et de développement particulières aux phases de l'adolescence et d’émergence de l’âge adulte. Les estimations de prévalence font ressortir la fréquence et la gravité des troubles de santé mentale dans cette cohorte d’âge et le besoin pressant d'intégrer une perspective de développement dans la planification des services d'appui, de prévention et d'intervention. Nous présentons un bref aperçu des troubles mentaux les plus courants, en y incorporant les trajectoires de développement et les variations pertinentes, et abordons les questions de diversité dans une optique d’équité en matière de santé. Nous concluons avec des recommandations pour améliorer le système des services pour les jeunes en transition vers l’âge adulte.

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Information & Authors

Information

Published In

cover image Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health
Volume 33Number 1July 2014
Pages: 77 - 86

History

Version of record online: 6 June 2014

Key Words

  1. mental health
  2. adolescence
  3. emerging adulthood
  4. transition-aged youth
  5. health equity
  6. diversity

Mots-clés

  1. santé mentale
  2. adolescence
  3. émergence de l’âge adulte
  4. jeunes en transition vers l’âge adulte
  5. équité en matière de santé
  6. diversité

Authors

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Karen B. MacLeod
E. B. Brownlie
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and University of Toronto

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Cited by

1. Nonsuicidal Self-Injury, Mental Health Service Use, and Cultural Perspectives Among Ethnically Diverse University Students
2. Evaluation of “Bell Let’s Talk in the Classroom”: A Guide for Improving Teachers’ Confidence in Providing Mental Health Education
3. Youth Services System Review: Moving From Knowledge Gathering to Implementation Through Collaboration, Youth Engagement, and Exploring Local Community Needs

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