Challenges and Supports for Families of Youth with Behavioral Health Needs

As mental health needs increase for youth across the United States, little is known about how these youth engage with emergency psychiatric services (EPS) and how accessing of these services is experienced by the family caregivers. This study utilized interviews with 19 youth and their adult caregivers, detailing their experiences with EPS and community needs. Interviews were conducted in-person and over the phone, lasting approximately 45 min. Qualitative data were analyzed following grounded theory to elicit a potential new theoretical view of youth and family experiences and needs associated with EPS. Themes elicited included: (1) family and school challenges, (2) challenges for caregivers, (3) structural and system challenges exacerbate issues, (4) family and friend supports, (5) community supports. Families in this study struggled with numerous family, school, and community barriers, indicating a need for targeted supports that address the family and community systems.