Citation

Schaffalitzky E, Leahy D, Armstrong C, Gavin B, Latham L, McNicholas F, Meagher D, O'Connor R, O'Toole T, Smyth BP, Cullen W. Early Interv. Psychiatry 2014; 9(5): 406-411.

Affiliation

Graduate-Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/eip.12165

PMID

24957196

Abstract

AIM: To examine the experience of developing and living with mental health and substance use disorders among young people living in urban-deprived areas in Ireland to inform primary care interventions.

METHOD: Semi-structured qualitative interviews with 20 young adults attending health and social care agencies in two deprived urban areas, and analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS: Five themes were identified: experiencing symptoms, symptom progression, delay accessing help, loss of control/crisis point, and consequences of mental health and substance use disorders. As young people delayed help, symptoms disrupted normal life progression and they found themselves unable to engage in everyday activities, and living with reduced potential. Living in deprived areas influenced the development of problems: many had added stressors, less familial support and early exposure to violence, addiction and bereavement.

CONCLUSION: Young people in urban-deprived areas are especially vulnerable to mental health and substance use disorders. Early identification in primary care appears necessary in halting symptom and illness progression, improving young people's chances of achieving their potential.

Language: en