Young people with long‐term health challenges experiences in transition to adulthood: A qualitative metasynthesis

Abstract

The aim of this study was to describe the experiences of the transition to adulthood for young people with long-term health challenges. Design: The metasynthesis approach was based on the guidelines by Sandelowski and Barroso for synthesizing qualitative research.

Self-Management of Long-Term Physical Conditions During Emerging Adulthood: A Systematic Review

“…Emerging adulthood is a period during which emerging adults are exploring and expanding their networks beyond the family (Hopmeyer et al, 2022; Wiebe et al, 2016). Previous research has highlighted that in addition to being important for the transition to adulthood, navigating shifting interpersonal influences and changes to support systems (e.g., familial support) is also important for the self-management of LTPC during emerging adulthood (Rasalingam et al, 2021; Shelley et al, 2020; Wentzell et al, 2020). This review provides support for this in highlighting the changes in support systems (e.g., college peers) and how relationships, especially family, can act either as a facilitator or as a barrier to self-management.…”

“…In relation to findings relevant to self-management, the researchers found differences in independence, such as those living with conditions, had more reliance on family and medical professionals for supports (e.g., physical and financial), were influenced in making college and career decisions (e.g., to be near medical care or family), were cautious of social environments and activities (e.g., smoking and alcohol) and that the higher the severity of a condition the lesser the autonomy reported. Finally, in their review of how individuals with LTPC experience emerging adulthood, Rasalingam et al (2021) highlighted some themes relating to self-management; the importance of support networks (e.g., worry of loss of support from family members or financial dependence); working towards independence which depends on the severity of LTPC (e.g., adjusting career goals to specific health needs); issues with systemic resources (e.g., access to reliable personal care assistants); psychosocial challenges (e.g., limitations to socialising making it difficult to build friendships or dealing with anxiety related to condition); and keeping a positive attitude (e.g., not engaging with negative thoughts).…”

“…Three recent review papers on emerging adults living with LTPC have highlighted the importance of considering self-management within emerging adulthood (Rasalingam et al, 2021; Shelley et al, 2020; Wentzell et al, 2020), however, none focused solely on self-management. Wentzell et al, (2020) examined how challenges or transitions during emerging adulthood added to the understanding of diabetes distress.…”

An integrated youth mental health service in a densely populated metropolitan area in Japan: Clinical case management bridges the gap between mental health and illness services

“…Unfortunately, however, these resources often work independently, even though young people can have diverse problems across many different fields (Rasalingam et al, 2021;World Health Organization, 2002. Furthermore, continuous support from age 12 to 25 years is essential in terms of early intervention for mental illness, but many child and adult care services are often not contiguous, making the transition between them a serious challenge (Blum et al, 1993;Colver et al, 2018;Scal & Ireland, 2005).…”

“…Usually, various social resources for young people are already well developed in these areas and are closely available within the community, such as through medical facilities, work support services, child support, public health centres and counselling offices in schools. Unfortunately, however, these resources often work independently, even though young people can have diverse problems across many different fields (Rasalingam et al, 2021; World Health Organization, 2002, 2012). Furthermore, continuous support from age 12 to 25 years is essential in terms of early intervention for mental illness, but many child and adult care services are often not contiguous, making the transition between them a serious challenge (Blum et al, 1993; Colver et al, 2018; Scal & Ireland, 2005).…”