Mental health transition plans for older adolescents with autistic spectrum disorders – clinical profile of patients from a metropolitan Borough, North West of England

Abstract

Introduction

The needs of people with Autistic Spectrum Conditions (ASC) are varied and complex. In order to improve outcomes for Adults with Autism, it is important to understand and evaluate the transition planning process and current services for adolescents/young Adults with ASC.

Aims and objectives

Aim was to undertake the needs assessment audit of all young people (ages 16–19) open to a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service. Objectives was to ensure that transition/discharge plan was in place for all the open cases and also identify any gaps in service provision.

Methods

A retrospective case-note review of all open cases (n = 41) aged 16–19 was undertaken. Data was obtained on diagnosis, co morbid problems, educational status, and transition/discharge plans.

Results

Twenty-two percent of the cases had co morbid moderate to severe Intellectual Disability. Transition was not an issue for this group, with entitlement of support from secondary-care-teams. Seventy-eight percent of the cases had diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome (AS)/high functioning autism (HFA). Seventy-five percent had co-morbid depressive/anxiety disorders, 12% had ADHD and 10% presented with repeated self-harm/suicidal behaviour. Nature of the co-morbid problems/risks did not meet thresholds for Community Adult Secondary Mental Health Services resulting in discharge to Primary Health Care Services.

Conclusions

Better training to equip primary care staff, such as General Practitioners is needed to support the growing numbers of young adults with HFA/Asperger's syndrome being discharged to their care. Costs/benefits of providing specialist adult services for people with HFA and AS to be considered in order to improve outcomes for adults with autism.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.