Formal and informal mental health support in young adults with recurrently depressed parents

BackgroundA family history of mental illness, particularly parental depression, is a risk factor for mental health difficulties in young people, with this heightened risk extending into adulthood. Evidence suggests low rates of formal mental health support in children/adolescents with depressed parents, but it is unknown whether this pattern persists into adulthood and applies to informal support. AimsWe examined the prevalence of formal and informal mental health support accessed by young adults with recurrently depressed parents. We identified factors associated with access to different support, reported satisfaction with support and identified potential facilitators/barriers to access. MethodsA mixed-method study comprising 144 young adults (mean age=23 years, range=18-28 years) who completed psychiatric assessments and reported on their use of mental health support. Regression analyses explored predictors for support. A focus group examined facilitators and barriers. ResultsYoung adults accessed a range of formal (29%) and informal (56%) support. Among those with psychiatric disorder, nearly half had not accessed formal support and one-fifth had not accessed any support. Predictors of support included psychiatric disorder, severity indicators (e.g. self-harm/suicidal thoughts, impairment), and demographic factors (e.g. education, gender). Predictors varied by type of support. Most participants reported satisfaction with support. Facilitators included role models, public mental health discussions, and practitioner training. Barriers included identifying difficulties, stigma, service limitations, and family/friends experiences. ConclusionsYoung adults at high risk of mental disorders accessed various mental health support. However, many did not access/receive support when needed. Further work is required to improve access to tailored support.