Experiences of Parents of Young Adults With Disabilities and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders

Abstract

This study examined the experiences of parents of young adults (YAs) with disabilities and co-occurring mental health disorders (D/MH). As these students leave high school, parents become primary providers of support, yet little is known about the challenges these parents face. Researchers used a basic interpretive approach to analyze qualitative data from parents of YAs with D/MH. Participants described (a) experience seeking YA's diagnoses, (b) impact of YA needs, (c) parent needs, and (d) recommendations for professionals and parents. Implications for practice include greater collaboration and training between school and mental health professionals and mental health training to professionals and families. Future research should explore the experiences of family units to determine coping strategies used across family members.